Prayer for July 30, 2018
Our scripture this week is from John 6.24-35: So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus.
25 When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” 26 Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. 27 Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal.” 28 Then they said to him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom God has sent.” 30 So they said to him, “What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” 32 Then Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.”
35 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
I really enjoy being in ministry at Peterborough United Methodist Church, (PUMC). Mostly because of the people. They honestly are seeking to do the works of God. But more than that, they understand that the ability to do God’s work on earth comes directly from God—they do not try to do it on human power. There is humility, grace and love that has created a Beloved Community. It is truly a privilege to be a part of this ministry. Interestingly, New Hampshire is competing with Vermont for the most godless state in the country. (http://time.com/4294/these-are-the-most-godless-states-in-america/) So finding an enclave of people who are bucking this trend is not easy.
So, what is keeping faith alive in this community? They certainly are walking the walk—sponsoring a child overseas, partnering with non-profits that feed the hungry and help the homeless. Not to mention a deep desire to understand the Word of God in Bible Study and Worship. I believe that PUMC understands that Jesus is the “bread of life.” I think they know that God created and empowers this refreshing Community of faith that loves without condition and welcomes everyone. They are humble and thankful and appreciative of God.
Recap Prayer and Challenge: Dear Lord, the love you are pouring into your church at Peterborough United Methodist Church is deeply appreciated. You inspire us to be a Beloved Community that cares deeply for everyone. We thank you for our sisters and brothers all over the world who are sharing your love in their communities, too. Keep us modest, remembering that all goodness comes from you. We pray this prayer in the name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
