The value of consistent prayer is not that He will hear us, but that we will hear Him. –  William McGill

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,  for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

In what way, will you participate in the National Day of Prayer this year?

Our nation was established by those who sought God’s guidance in prayer. In 2007, the theme for America’s NDP is “America Unite in Prayer.” How appropriate for this historic 2007 year when we celebrate America’s 400th Anniversary. God is up to something huge.

The National Day of Prayer is a vital part of our heritage. Since the first call to prayer in 1775, when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming a nation, the call to prayer has continued through our history, including President Lincoln’s proclamation of a day of “humiliation, fasting, and prayer” in 1863. In 1952, a joint resolution by Congress, signed by President Truman, declared an annual, national day of prayer. In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday of every May. Each year, the president signs a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day. Last year, all 50 state governors plus the governors of several U.S. territories signed similar proclamations.

This year, the official National Day of Prayer is Thursday May 3, 2007. However, many youth events take place the evening before across the nation. In 2005, Mike Paquette organized the first NDP event for youth in Culpeper with about 150 people attending. In May 2006, about 300 people came to this NDP youth event. Tomorrow evening, Mike expects about 500.

The NDP Student Freedom Rally for youth will take place on Wednesday, May 2, 2007 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm at the Culpeper County High School Auditorium (14240 Achievement Drive, Culpeper, VA 22701). Featured will be several area student ministries, special guest speakers from Teen Mania and Battlecry, and live worship from the band “HOOKED.” For more info, contact Michael Paquette (540-270-4468, wordofhope1@aol.com).

Culpeper Virginia is blessed to have two other NDP events in 2007. These include the NDP signature event at Noon on May 3 on the lawn by the Culpeper Courthouse and the 2nd annual evening NDP event starting at 7 PM at the Culpeper United Methodist Church.

Even if you can’t participate in a NDP event near you, I encourage you to visit the main NDP website [www.nationaldayofprayer.org]. 

Prayer Power
Father, more than ever, our nation is in desperate need of Your intervention, forgiveness, and healing. As American troops are spread all over the world fighting to protect our freedom, the very foundations of America are being torn away piece by piece. You are calling Your children to be faithful for such a time as this. May we respond to Your command to humble ourselves, pray, seek Your face, and turn from our wicked ways. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.

Link of the Day
Location of NDP events in Virginia [www.pray4va.org/content.cfm?id=2058]
Find a NDP event in your area (USA) [http://www.ndptf.org/custom/events/eventSearch/]

Blessings to pray faithfully for leaders in your community, state, and nation!