National Day of Prayer

April 18th, 2024
by Pastor David Parker

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord”
Psalm 33:12

Throughout my ministry, I have always sought to participate in the National Day of Prayer movement in our nation. This non-partisan movement of Christians from every walk of life seeks to gather on one day, the first Thursday in May, as our Nation’s Day of Prayer. There will be three events throughout the day: 10-11 am at Regency; 12-1 pm at the Island Country Courthouse in Coupeville; and 5:30 – 6:30 at North Whidbey Middle School. I will be the “M.C.” at the Courthouse gathering at noon.

The theme this year is “Lift up the word, light up the world!” The theme scripture is from 2 Samuel 22:29-31- “You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light. 30 With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God, I can scale a wall. 31 “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.” This will be our nation's 73rd annual National Day of Prayer. If you desire more specific information, you can contact the regional chapter head, Jacque Hildreth at jlh71848@aol.com.

While in this recent day and age, there are legitimate concerns about patriotism (honoring and caring for your country) being hijacked by nationalism (defending your nation to the exclusion and interests of others). In the latter case, even attaching a “Christian branding” upon a political ideology as “God’s will” for the entire country can seem precariously, and dangerously, like fascism. The goal of the National Day of Prayer movement has been to remain non-partisan, non-political, and non-ideological, as it seeks to recognize and lift up the SEVEN SECTORS of our society in prayer to God. These are the seven categories that are the focus on prayer at all NDP gatherings.

1. American Families - for strong, thriving relationships that are safe, loving, nurturing, and faithful.

2. American Military - Those who seek to defend freedom and place their lives in harm’s way.

3. American Governments - Our executive, legislative, and judicial branches at the federal, state, and local levels to exercise a just and equal course of civic life for all citizens.

4. American Churches -To become houses of grace filled with integrity, humility, loyalty, obedience, and radical hospitality.

5. American Education - For integrity in the education transmission process, positive peer-support environments, excellence in academics, and passionate teachers who model and empower disciplined outcomes and achievement.

6. American Media - For the most powerful voice in our culture to speak truth, convey humanity, report fairly and accurately, and engage appropriately.

7. American Business - Modeling and affording growth and opportunity for all people to excel in the enfranchising of all lives into success and holistic wellness. For ethics that protect commerce for all and protection from harm.

When the Apostle Paul was writing instructions to his younger protégé’ Timothy, he reminded him of the importance of this kind of prayer movement. "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-2 NIV). I hope you will join me on Thursday, May 2nd, at one of these three events as we seek to lift up our nation before the Lord and ask His divine grace and mercy to be poured out upon us.

Entrusting our nation into God’s hands!

Pastor David 😊