We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (Romans 6:26b niv)

Action without thought can lead to disastrous consequences. Starting several months ago, there has been considerable stress in my life due to the consequences of two such actions. The events surrounding my stress are severe and completely out of my control. However, they strongly impact the lives of several people whom I love as well as others I do not even know. A few ways for my husband and I to help with the consequences of the thoughtless actions have materialized and been utilized. But, the problems cannot be solved by either of us.

I have taken the consequences to prayer. "Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord; O Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy." (Psalm s130:1–2)

I have tried all sorts of prayers. The two specific, thoughtless actions have angered me and caused me to cry out, “Why did these occur? It is not fair! You already gave them a heavy cross to bear; the overload of two additional ones have caused their cup to overflow—and not with oil of blessing!” I was beginning my prayers about the consequences using the lament method Pastor Dan preached about during our Lenten season. He said that it was all right to lash out—that God could take it. I tried, but lashing out is just not my style. And, after a short while, I began to pray a different way.

I have switched to ceaseless begging like the Canaanite woman. "... But even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table." (Matthew 15:21–28)

Multiple times each day and night, I continue to repeat my intercessory prayers. I know the final outcome will be what is God’s will, but I am trying to hope for what I do not yet have and find it has helped me to wait for what I do not have more patiently. I fully believe God will intercede in my prayers with words I simply cannot form for these issues so important to others and me. But, there are times when the devil puts doubt into my mind. At these times, I pray "...I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" (Mark 9:24)

And, I continue to pray my way through these life-lasting consequences that have come about due to thoughtless actions. I trust God will guide me in how to deal with them.

God, continue to help me when my doubts begin to overtake my hope. Help me to remember that solutions are not within my control. Intercede with my feeble words to find the spirit of my prayers. Thy will be done. Amen.

Contributed by Nancy
Monday June 25, 2012
Liturgical Year B: Week 31
Liturgical Color: Green
Sunday Gospel reading:
Lectionary 12 (Proper 7)
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost