But he [Jesus] said, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.“ Luke 18:27
Dear Lord Jesus, thanks for the freedom to acknowledge when life feels like life’s demands are a little too much. It’s so good to remember today that the gospel calls us to hope, not to hype; to believe, not to make believe; to pray, not to pretend.
Sarah laughed at the thought of having a baby in her nineties. Mary was shocked at the thought of giving birth to you, as a virgin. Though overwhelmed, Mary believed; and I want her cry to be mine: “I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
Jesus, I need the resources you’ve promised and you alone can give. I‘m in a stretch when it seems as though the alarm goes off right after my head hits the pillow. The needle on my energy gage is getting pretty close to ”E”. I have friends on the equivalent of spiritual life support system, and they’re looking to me for life. Breathe enough grace into my heart that I might have something to give those who are knocking on my door at midnight. They are desperate and I don’t want to turn them away.
For my friend hooked deep into a pornography addiction, give me wisdom and compassion, Jesus. I‘m tired of the cycle of broken promises, yet I understand addiction well enough not to give up on him. Where can I take him for the best care? What do I say to his wife and kids?
Jesus—God of the impossible, I also bring to you three marriages that “have spent everything they have on a multitude of doctors and cures but are no better“. Have mercy, dear Lord, have mercy. Please bring the power of your resurrection to bear. May hope and kindness emerge on the horizon soon.
Though I want to run away, I choose to run to you. I know you to be full of grace and truth—the one whose mercies are more than a match for our hearts. So very Amen I pray in your matchless and mighty name.
