Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).
A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children
Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Matthew 5:44
“What is the core message of the Gospel? It is, ‘Love your enemies.’ When you’re still dealing with all your own needs and anxieties and fears, you have to divide the world into enemies and friends. But God doesn’t do that. God showers the rain over the good as well as over the bad. God doesn’t need to divide the world into those for God and those against God because God loves each one uniquely and unconditionally. Our God wants you to do the same, but you can only do that if you believe in God’s unconditional love for you and if you are not overly dependent on human affirmation or rejection. You will be able to love your enemy precisely when you no longer need to divide the world into friends and enemies anymore.
To love your enemies is the core message of the Gospel because it is a reflection of the way God loves you."
From Fear to Love: Lenten Reflections on the Parable of the Prodigal Son, by Henri J.M. Nouwen
Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,
Thank you so much for continually lifting in prayer the children of the world, as well as those who care for them, have authority over them, and yes, even for those who are the enemies of children. I have a hard time with that last one. Praying for the hurting child within them is one way that has made this a little easier for me. I’d love to hear how you deal with this type of prayer struggle.
This Wednesday, we’ll lift in prayer the hurting children of the world at our weekly prayer meeting. I hope you'll be able to join us on Wednesday, March 3, 2010, at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s Room at First Presbyterian Church, Midland, to pray for children at risk. Please join us for this time of prayer and afterwards for lunch ($5) and fellowship.
If you have prayer requests about children, those who care for them, have authority over them, or harm them, please send them to me at claufer@facesofchildren.net or give me a call.
Grateful for your prayers,
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