Intercessory Prayers

Read John 17: 20-25

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone...This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 1,3-4 (NRSV)

Julianis Baez Pichardo lives in the Dominican Republic. The globe in his office shows continents, countries, and names of cities around the world. Each day, he spins the globe gently. After a moment or two, he places his finger on the globe to stop spinning. Then he prays for the people and current situation of the country where his finger is resting.

This practice has great meaning for Julianis. It reminds him that intercessory prayer knows no boundaries. He prays to God for the salvation, spiritual renewal, and well-being of the people in the cities and countries whose names he barely knows. It is his sincere belief that prayers offered to God from a humble heart extend far beyond this small Caribbean island where he lives.

Praying for nations across the globe can transform societies, families, and individuals whose faces Julianis can only imagine. John 17 describes Jesus' example of intercession for the people: "I pray for them" (v.9). This is a simple yet powerful statement. If Jesus took time to pray for his followers and others, we can do the same.

Prayer: God of all nations, thank you for your Son who taught us to pray. May we remain faithful in following his example to pray for one another, in Jesus' name. Amen.