Matthew 26:22 – And they were very sorrowful and began to say to him one after another, "Is it I, Lord?" (ESV)

Years ago, I used to be a Vision and Values governor for a school where I did my best to uphold Christian values in a state-financed, nominally Christian school. My work as a governor made me realize that what I said and did, or assented to, mattered.

Today, we take for granted what our ancestors fought for years ago. Time has distanced us from the enormity of the price that they paid and the importance of their achievements that keep us within a world of relative freedom. So often, we allow the few to govern over us without much thought as to the significance of their influence and the choices that they make for us.

I sense that we have let time erode the efficacy of the Christian faith — initially in us and subsequently, by our absence, within the world of influence. Consumed with consumption, a quiet life, and our self-gratification, have we become shadows of those early Christian soldiers who dared to speak out and stand up? Have we allowed the watering down of the influence of our faith that once was life-saving?

I hope that by now, you are saying, like me, "Is it I, Lord?" It is a good question.

It is important for all of us, no matter where we are in our lives, through prayer and confession, to give everything into our Lord's hands: thought, word, and deed, our lives, and the world that we live in.

As we do our part in praying today, maybe we can ask what is on God's heart for us and our world.

War, earthquake, climate, leadership, and famine persist as we take for granted that tomorrow will be the same as yesterday. Have we turned a blind eye to the need for prayer today? May we humble ourselves and take time before God, as we are able, to lift up our local and national leaders, our local area, and the world globally with its needs. May we pray for God's rule and wisdom to prevail over the demise of the good once more.

Prayer: Lord, what are You saying to us today? May Your wisdom come to our hearts and ears. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, as we also have forgiven those who have sinned against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

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About the author:

Rod Marshall <roderickhenrymarshall@gmail.com>
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
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