We pray because we are convinced God’s power is released when we pray.

 

Prayer is our connection with the Eternal, the Omnipotent. Followers of Jesus are taught to “rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.” Why? “For this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus.” This active attitude has always been the way through the impossible. Israel watches as the sea parts and they walk through on dry ground. Jesus stills storms. He provides food for hungry people. He heals the sick, and raises the dead. As the early Church grows and spreads throughout the ancient world, God is there, answering their prayers in good times and bad.

 

We pray because God‘s great power can bring change and healing in attitudes and circumstances, in relationships, in emotional and physical problems, in overcoming marital obstructions, and more. Whatever the difficulty or dilemma, prayer is the way through which we touch and release God’s transforming power.

 

It has been said, “when we work, we work; but when we pray, God works.“ Followers of Jesus pray as individuals and collectively because we believe the portal of prayer that fueled and empowered the early Church remains open to us in this modern age. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” We pray because we are absolutely convinced that he can make a difference. Skeptics may argue that answered prayers are only coincidences. I do love the ‘coincidences’ that happen when we really begin to pray.

 

May Jesus always keep us close.

 

 

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“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority. that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”              ~1Timothy 2:1-2

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A Prayer

Lord God, Almighty Father, 

you are the creator of humankind 

and author of peace. 

We thank you for all the brave men and women 

who have served our country 

and fought for our peace and freedom. 

We are reminded today of the cost paid for the liberty we possess, 

and ask you to bless the present members of our armed forces 

stationed here in our homeland and throughout the world.

Give our moms and dads firm support, gentle love

and compassionate healing.

Give our sons and daughters courage and strength. 

Be their power and protector, 

leading them from darkness to light.

And to you be all glory, 

honor and praise, 

now and forever. 

—Amen.

(Prayer given on November 11, 2024, Veterans Day Memorial, Bellevue, Washington USA)

 

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YOU CAN HELP

As we enter the final quarter of 2024, I invite you to partner with Ward Tanneberg Ministries in your year-end giving.

 

My mission is reimagining God’s story to reach a reading and listening world. My purpose is “telling the story of Jesus through the power of story.” Jesus told parables. When read or heard, they were meant to be paraballein, meaning “to compare,” and inspire his followers to action. This is what I do with my work.

 

I rely on the help of others in this mission. Net royalties from my writings are placed in a fund to promote and publish written works and to assist in other righteous causes. No royalties are returned to me. 

 

If you want to give a tax-deductible gift to Ward Tanneberg Ministries, use the QR code below to donate.