Steve’s Blog
Words & Videos of Encouragement
In baseball, they call them a “closer.” It refers to a pitcher that specializes in bringing a game to an end with devastating pitches. Most often, they “bring the heat,” or have a nasty pitch that a batter can’t begin to hit. All major league baseball teams have a good closer to bring games to a successful conclusion.
I’m considering starting a new movement. It’s called “Pray For A Stranger Every Day.”
Without really trying, I seem to find myself launching into prayer with total strangers. Sometimes it will happen at the end of a phone call with a airline reservations person or someone with my cellular provider when before saying goodbye, I’ll ask, “How can I pray for you?” Typically, people are shocked and don’t know what to say. If they don’t have a specific request, I just begin praying for God’s provision in their life, for their finances, health and relationships.
When I close, I find that there is silence and then a sincere, “Thank you.” Even folks that don’t believe in God seem to be moved. And or course, even if they don’t believe in God, God believes in them.
So try it. Whether is it on the phone or at the check out stand, or in some other totally obscure place, ask the person what you could pray for. Even if they say, “Nothing,” start praying.
We may never know the outcome but we don’t have to. We are called to love God and love others and what might seem to be random prayers are most likely divine appointments.
One of my favorite songs to sing is Into the Fire from the Broadway musical, “The Scarlet Pimpernel.” This song comes at the beginning of the musical as the English nobleman, Sir Percival Blakeney asks others to join him in battle. It is a stirring and rousing battle cry that contains a strong spiritual message that can encourage believers to go into the fire.
Recently, Kristine and I were discussing some of the challenges we face and how it is like going into the fire. Each of us in different ways encounter opportunities to charge into battle and challenge forces of evil whether in the physical or spiritual realms. As believers, we are aware that the real battles of life take place in the heavenly realms as forces of light confront forces of darkness. It requires strength and courage.
It is especially hard to charge into battle when surrounded by an enemy. Circumstances can be overwhelming and even paralyzing. Our responsibility as friends and fellow believers is to provide support and cover for those going into battle and encourage them in the midst of the fight.
If you know someone who is in a battle, be there to provide not only prayer cover, but whatever type of assistance they need to the best of your ability. If they just need someone to sit with them quietly, sit with them. If they have financial challenges and you have the means to help, help them. If they need transportation, give them a ride. If they need repairs done to their home or car, grab a hammer or wrench.
We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus and march with them into the fire.
Steve
My friend, Dallas Willard died on Wednesday, May the 8th. Dallas was a man of towering intellect but humble heart. To read one of Dallas’ books requires one’s full attention and concentration. His writings define the word deep. At the same time, I can recall times of standing on the sidewalk admiring the floats in the Pasadena Rose Parade and chatting casually about simple things. Dallas’ wife, Jane, is equally profound in her own gifts. Both have contributed greatly to countless lives.
A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to sit with Dallas and sing some hymns. It was a sacred moment that I will treasure. It is especially meaningful know that Dallas is singing at the Throne. As my father would say, “Dallas caught a glimpse of heaven, and it took his breath away.”
If you are interested in thinking deeply, read one of Dallas’ great books. He has left a legacy of a life well lived.
