But First, We Pray

Our family is recovering from the bike accident trauma for one of the son-in-laws on August 10. LIfe has been very topsy turvy and we give thanks for many, many good news stories in this journey. What I wanted to share in this community was the witness of seven grandchildren who are processing this new reality together as they live in the same town in Michigan. One daughter went to the hospital to pick up the three sons of her sister who were huddled in the waiting room trying to make sense of "something." As they were leaving in the car she tried to "make a plan" of their time with each other. But, out of the back of the car came a trembling voice that said, "Aunt LaLa, but first, we pray." That had been part of her plan, but it was now moved front and center.

Art Teacher Laura had art supplies at the ready and quickly drew images to help the little ones.

Busy hands, quiet conversations, and soft whispers. How do make sense of something that doesn't make sense? When there isn't much information? When the void is big and the unknown even bigger?

Let's pick out a Bible verse. Let's say a prayer. Let's be here together with Jesus. Jesus is with us and THAT is good. We are SURE about that good news.

Charlie's prayer says a whole lot about God and his dad- with no words.

Young chidlren can explain their prayers and share them with grownups. Their listening hearts know the nudge of the Holy Spirit. They transcend all the questions of adults with steps of faith and trust.

Thanks Jack, for your encouragement to Pray First. When the muscle memory of prayer is well used, it steps forward in times of crisis to lead the way to the Father. That is one of the basic tenets of Visual Faith- that these processes take PRACTICE. They serve us well in times of challenge to step into the gift of prayer when the unknown looms deep and wide. His gift of faith conquers fear and nothing matches that power in our lives.

Son in law Daniel and wife Jessica continue on this journey of healing. We give thanks for every prayer shared and the outpouring of the love of His Kingdom servants.