refreshing . . .

I see the pain around me. People suffering and confused. Some are feeling lost in the middle of their sickness, wondering if You're hearing their cries. Others are suffering in the midst of circumstances they have or haven't created themselves. But if they have, it's only because they don't know. They don't understand. Certainly they don't WANT to be miserable. They're just having trouble finding their way. They're having trouble hearing Your voice. Maybe they just don't know You at all.

So here I am, before Your throne, asking You . . . pleading with You . . . please, Lord, show Yourself to them. Give the hope that only You can give. You know every heart . . . you created each one Yourself. You are the only one in the universe who can speak to the deepest places of their hearts, in a way they can understand. Speak to each one of them, Lord. Whisper the words of hope. Give them vision for their futures. Remind them that Your plans are good and Your love is strong. Let them feel your presence and know Your love. Refresh them, Oh Lord. Breathe hope into their weary lives. Give them a glimpse of their purpose, their value. Let them know it's important to You that they are here.

You are a mighty and loving God. We have nowhere to turn but to You. Let Your hand move, let your heart of compassion spill over them. You are our hope. You are our strength. And it's to You we will turn at the time of greatest need.

Have mercy and compassion, Oh Lord . . . Let great hope arise in Your people.