"Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel." ... Ephesians 6:17-18

Last month, my husband required urgent glaucoma surgery to stop rapidly impending blindness and hopefully save his small amount of sight. The extra kicker with the surgery was that there was a strong chance the surgery itself would cause immediate blindness. Our relatives, close friends, and fellow church members quickly assured us that they would pray for him. His name was added to the prayer list at church. We were exceedingly thankful for this. At the same time, prayers were offered from an unexpected source.

Jack and I participate in several activities at our local Senior Citizen Center. Some people we have met there have quickly become our friends. Most relationships, however, are more on the acquaintance, first-name only, level. We shared information about his upcoming operation with our friends at the Center; the news was quickly passed around to others who come to the center. We were touched by the number of individuals who approached us, one-on-one, to say, "I will pray for you." These were people who did not know our religious beliefs but were bold enough to share theirs with us. Those who worship as Jews, Catholics, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Southern Baptists, African American Episcopalians, and other mainline Protestants offered prayers. Their prayers rose as richly, perfumed incense to join those offered by our family, close friends, and Lutheran brothers and sisters.

And, as God has promised, the prayers were answered. Immediately after surgery, my husband was able to see light, and daily, the small amount of sight he had prior to the surgery appears to be returning. Thanks be to God!

Thank you God for witnesses willing to share their faith with others. Help me to become bolder in showing forth mine to those whom I encounter. Amen

Contributed by Nancy E.
Published Sunday June 13, 2004
Week 29 of Liturgical Year C