A Prayer About Running After Stuff
So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:31-33
Lord Jesus, this is one early morning I’d don’t feel alone, at all. From where I’m seated, I can already see streams of cars heading for the stores and malls and it’s only 4 in the morning! They call it Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, when your words about “running after all these things” really come to life in our culture.
People will be pushing against doors, running up isles, grabbing for items… like famished people who haven’t eaten in weeks… with manners that would usually embarrass most grandmothers, except today, because the grandmothers are right there with them.
Jesus, I’m not sitting here smugly judging anyone, for there is no one, by nature, more greedy or grabby than me. I DO thank you that I live in a time and place of abundance. I DO thank you that I’ve never really had to be concerned, at all, about what I will eat, drink or wear. I DO thank you that many people will enjoy fine savings and get real bargains today.
But today, above all Jesus, I am SO very thankful for Good Friday, and what you accomplished on the cross to make it possible for me to know God as Abba, Father-Someone who knows my every need… answers before I ask… give me all things richly to enjoy… who satisfies my hunger, slakes my thirst and clothes me-not just with a great diversity, but with grace immeasurable.
Indeed, Lord Jesus, to be clothed in your righteousness, to feast upon you as the Bread of Life, to drink the living water you alone can give… I am a wealthy man beyond all accounting.
Show me, and my friends, quite specifically what it will mean for us to seek first your kingdom of joy, peace and righteousness in this next season of life. Where do you want us, where do you want me, to invest my time, talent and treasure… my energy, tears and laughter? How would you use us in the advancing of your kingdom of redemption and restoration? What part of your story of renewal would you write me into-in my community and among the nations? So very Amen, I pray, with gratitude and anticipation, in Jesus’ name.