Atherton Resident since 2013

James 5:16

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

Questions for reflection:

  • Is there someone today that needs your prayers and care?
  • Is there a burden that you should share with others who would pray for you?

Thought for today: 

It isn’t always easy to be on the receiving end of grace. As clergy, I am used to praying for others and leading group prayers.  This time, it was different.  People gathered to pray for me just before I went to the hospital for a full knee replacement. I had asked for prayers but did not expect for a whole bunch of people to come to my residence just before going to the hospital for this surgery. Some of the people present were pastors and others were not. We made a circle and everyone who gathered took their time praying for me. I was moved to tears, it was such a powerful experience filled with love. I know that our Lord was present and listening to the love and faith of the people gathered. He also knew that I was filled with gratitude for all the blessings I was receiving.  After the surgery, while recovering, I received cards and visits from people whom I hardly know, who told me that they were praying for me.

The surgery was a success and my physician has been surprised that my recovery is faster than he thought would ever happen. He had warned me that this was a risky thing to do, because of my age. Actually, I am not surprised at all. These small miracles are what a Christian community is all about.  There is unbelievable power in a community that cares and prays for each other. I have been blessed to find such a community of friends at Atherton. I give thanks and praise every day that God has brought me to this incredible place.