Prayer Power

James 5:16b - The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV)
Colossians 4:2 - Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (NIV)
       My family lives about two hours from our city, and I take the back roads through small towns when I go to visit them. The scenery is beautiful, and this route keeps me off the six-lane freeways.
       One night, however, I was distracted. The roads were much busier than usual, and I'd pulled over for more than one ambulance racing along. I felt a strong urge to pray. I prayed fervently for protection of all on the roads and particularly those who already needed an ambulance. I prayed that no one would die without knowing the Lord. I prayed that the Lord's comfort and healing would be evident to anyone in need. Passionately, I continued for about ten minutes, then went on my way into town.
As I was sitting at a stop light, a car came full speed through the intersection right for me. It was blindingly fast and with no time to think, I covered my face with my hands and screamed, "Jesus! Help!!!" I braced for impact, but none came. The car was on the other side of me as if it had gone right through me. I was stunned. The driver looked back at me confused, and we both drove slowly away.
       All I could think of was that the Lord loves me. He warned me by urging me to pray about ten minutes prior. He loves me. And I wondered what the man in the other car was thinking. Did he know that he had just witnessed the power of God? Did he thank the One who saved him? Certainly this miracle was as much for this stranger as it was for me.
       With new resolve, I decided that day to listen to the Holy Spirit's urging when it comes to prayer, and to be more obedient to His call. He loves us so much.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You are so gracious to us. You care so much for us. Thank You for Your daily protection and guidance. Help us to heed Your calls to prayer, to draw closer to You, and to know Your heart for us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
 
(first published on http://daily.presbycan.ca/ today, Feb.16, 2011)