Preparing for Daylight

At evening…Mark 1:32

When the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon-possessed, Mark 1:32. Jesus did not stop at the end of the day. He worked into the night. There was much to be done. Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; there He prayed, Mark 1:35. Nor did He sleep-in the next day. There was much to say to the Father.

This evening we prepare for the arrival of a new year. There is much to do; much to pray about. We may not be able to cast out demons, heal the sick, cleanse the leper, but we can pray. We have been invited to pray: be anxious for nothing; pray about everything. More accurately: be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God, Philippians 4:6. Our example and our invitation come from the same person: Jesus our Lord.

This is a timely invitation. These days it is easy to feel the pain of self-dependance. It is easy to think we must do everything ourselves. Especially if we want it done right. Listen less to those who offer empty advice. The only experts in raising children are those who are childless. Ditto for other unwelcome advice. No one knows how you feel.

This advice comes from God through Paul, who was in prison at the time. Even Paul does not know how you feel. But God knows the remedy: talking to Him. Notice where we begin, “with thanksgiving.” The very essence of worship is gratitude. So, if you can’t think of anything to say this evening to God, say Thank You!

This simple prayer may allow you to rise tomorrow, at whatever time, refreshed. Remember this tonight: The Lord is thinking of you, Psalm 40:7. Knowing this, take it to the Lord in prayer. In the words of Jesus, For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things, Luke 12:30.

Ask in the name of Jesus knowing your Father knows what you need. Happy New Year!