Pray Out Loud

My heart has been flooded with prayers for people in my life and even complete strangers. I would like to take a few minutes to write my prayers down and to share in hopes that you can add these people to your prayers too.

Dear Lord, please watch over and care for the following people:

1. My brother, Jerry's friend, Ethan and his family. They recently lost Ethan's dad. My heart breaks for all of them, especially Ethan, because he is so young. Ethan was one of my students when I did my student teaching in college.

2. My brother, Mark's friend, Pat, who just this weekend committed suicide. Hearing his story breaks my heart. A recently divorced, father of 2, who lost everything in his split with his ex. I pray for his two children, especially, who lost a loving father who was struggling with life.

3. My church friend, Katie, who is searching for her purpose in life right now and what God's plan is for her. She is feeling very lost and she is young working professional away from family.

4. My church friend Julie - her mother, who recently found out that she has lung cancer.

5. My friends, Jill and Mike and their baby, Gia, who still has not come home from the hospital due to a lot of health complications. She was born early in May 2012.

6. My brother, Mark, who was recently deployed to NJ. He is an EMT. I pray that he arrives and return safely. He is so brave and I admire the work he does every day to save lives.

7. My brother, Jerry, who is still struggling, I know, with the troubles he has faced with our older brother, Brandon. I pray these two will some day mend their relationship and find love in their hearts again for each other.

8. My brother, Bill, who is recently deployed with the Navy until March. I pray for safe travels. He only has two years left of service. I am very proud of him and everything he does to keep us all safe.

9. My brother, Cody, who is always seeking in his place in the world. I pray that he some day finds the direction God has meant for him.

10. My mom. She is recently on her own again after a long relationship with her ex. I pray that she find comfort and strength to do life with God. I pray that she realizes she isn't alone - that God is with her and will look after her.

11. My grandma, who is still finding her place in this world as a widow. She is doing well and I pray this continues. She has struggled so much after my grandpa's death. I cannot imagine losing the love of your life after 45+ years together.

12. My dear friend, Ellie, and her dad. He is battling cancer and has been for awhile now. I pray for his good health and peace in their lives.

13. My co-workers and their safe travels back to the office.

14. My church, as we go through some changes. I hope our new transitions keep us in line with our mission and vision for our church.

15. My pastor, Ben, he is so strong and probably has a lot on his mind and heart these days. With his long-time friend, and co-pastor, move on to a new church.

16. My fiance, Matt. He doesn't know it, but I pray for him daily. I pray that he arrive safely at school and basketball practice and home. I pray that he know and feel the love and commitment I have for him and our relationship. I pray that he never doubt me or my love.

17. My nieces, Jade and Ella. These two little girls hold a very special place in my heart. They are my world. I would do anything for them. I am always praying for them. I pray they feel and know the love their fathers have for them despite actions and decisions made a couple years ago. No little girl should ever not know her father or the love he has for her.

18. I pray for all those who are on the east coast as hurricane sandy approaches. I pray for their health and safety. 

I pray for all those that I have missed in this prayer. I will try to make this Pray Out Loud post a regular weekly thing.

Thank you, God, for all that you do in my life. I am so grateful and I am reminded of your everlasting love and forgiveness. This last week was a wake-up call and reminder of all that you have done for us. I pick up and carry my cross for you, always, Lord. Amen.