Prayer Makes a Difference

Porirua Anglicans chose to call the building that is their Centre, Te Whare Karakia when it was blessed by Bishop Ellie Sanderson because they wanted it foremost to be a Prayer Centre. Literally "Whare Karakia" means House of Prayer or more colloquially "Church". A cursory reading of the Gospels of our Lord Jesus Christ makes it very clear that the amazing things that flowed from His ministry were the result of praying. Nothing has changed and the amazing things we experience as we see lives and situations changed are the outcome of prayer to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, before they are anything else.

In recent weeks we have prayed for four (I suspect young) people who have requested prayers through our web form at Porirua Anglican. In responding to their requests today, after weeks of prayer, I have invited them to each report back how it is for them now. I believe each of these people has been touch by the love and power of God. My request to them to respond is not so that we get a tick for our successful praying, there's no humility in that. Rather that they notice and express their benefits and ultimately give thanks to God for these. St Paul writing to the Philippians in chapter 4 was strong on encouraging the blessed to return thanks,

4 Always be glad because of the Lord! I will say it again: Be glad. 5 Always be gentle with others. The Lord will soon be here. 6 Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. 7 Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.
8 Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise. 9 You know the teachings I gave you, and you know what you heard me say and saw me do. So follow my example. And God, who gives peace, will be with you.

Luke 17:11-19 is a Gospel story about ten lepers who were cleansed and healed by Jesus. Only one came back, prostrated himself before Jesus and said thank you. Only he had the privilege of hearing Jesus's words of affirmation, "Your faith has made you well." Thanksgiving is a primary task for the soul that wants peace and blessing from God. Don't forget to say thank you. Mum was so right when we taught me to do that.

​Terry

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