A Good Time to Pray
Gregory Shanley (Michigan, USA)




TODAY'S READING
James 5:13-16

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
I can use times of waiting to connect with God.

PRAYER FOCUS
Those undergoing cancer treatment





Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, I’m there with them.” - Matthew 18:20 (CEB)


The cancer center waiting room where I sat was crowded with patients and caregivers. A woman came in pushing a young person in a wheelchair who looked to be her daughter. The woman took the seat next to me and parked the wheelchair immediately in front of me. My first thought was, How rude! I can’t even move my feet or get up. But I bit my tongue and said nothing.

Shortly thereafter, I noticed the young woman had pulled out a daily devotional and was reading an article titled, “Get Close to God.” This inspired me to pull out my phone and begin reading my daily devotionals too. My first one centered on Matthew 18:20 and the second, James 5:13.

My mood changed as I looked around the room and thought, Who in this room filled with patients and caregivers is not suffering? As I began to pray silently, I wondered how many others were using this time to pray. I could feel God’s presence with us and knew that God was hearing our prayers. God will gladly join us in our prayers at any time and any place.


TODAY'S PRAYER
Heavenly Father, help us to take the time to pray and rest in the assurance that you are listening. Amen