Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16
Whatever the usual state of our prayer life, our first reaction in times of need is often to pray. This year's theme passage reminds us how God does shed His grace on us in our time of need.
How the Rock is Celebrating
In 2004, approximately 40,000 National Day of Prayer events were held nationwide
The Rock is celebrating the National Day of Prayer, Thursday, May 5, with a variety of activities. The sanctuary will be open from 7 AM to 7 PM for prayer, led by a pastor or a leader.
Prayer will be focused on the acronym, G.R.A.C.E.:
- Government leaders and centers of power
- Relationships (families and neighborhoods)
- Arts and media
- Church and revival
- Education and youth
There will also be a special evening service of prayer and worship from 7 PM to 9 PM. In addition, small groups are urged to do prayer walks throughout the day around government locations, schools, businesses, fire stations, police departments, and neighborhoods.
A Brief History of the National Day of Prayer
"Father, direct my thoughts, words, and work; wash away my sins in the immaculate Blood of the Lamb, and purge my heart by Thy Holy SpiritDaily frame me more and more into the likeness of Thy Son, Jesus Christ."
This simple, timeless prayer was recited by our country's founding father, George Washington.
Our nation was founded on prayer, though some have fought to remove its influence from our government.
In 1775, prayer times were held to seek God's guidance in forming a new nation. President Lincoln called for a day of prayer in 1863, during the Civil War.
In 1952, congress and President Truman made the day of prayer an annual event. In 1988 Ronald Reagan designated the first Thursday of May each year as the National Day of Prayer.
While Christians are called to pray as Jesus did, the National Day of Prayer was set up for all Americans to pray for the United States.
What Else Can I Do?
For more information about the history and purpose of the National Day of Prayer check out the official website: www.nationaldayofprayer.org.
National Day of Prayer events will take place all over San Diego. For information about these events, go to www.ndpsandiego.org.
While The National Day of Prayer is specifically focused on prayer for the nation, The Global Day of Prayer, Sunday, May 15, is an international event for Christians to unite and pray for the needs of the world. For more information on the Global Day of Prayer, go to www.gdopusa.com.
