J09 How can I possibly pray for my enemies with sincerity?

1 Timothy 2:1-2, 5: "...I urge then, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for everyone ... for all those in authority; that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness..." [NIV]

and Romans 8:26-27: "...the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will." [NIV]

Origen: "I think supplication [deesis] is a prayer offered with a special request for something a person lacks. From this is distinguished prayer [proseuche] which is more plainly offered with simple praise, not to obtain a request but simply to praise the nobility of great things. And I think that intercession [enteuxis]is a petition for certain things addressed to God by someone who has some greater boldness, while thanksgiving [eucharistia] is a statement of gratitude made with prayers for receiving good things from God."

Reflection: At the time of this writing, the U.S. is deeply riven with political discord. Never in my 76 years do I recall such intense hatred "across the aisle." I mute the news when my foes speak, to spare myself the anger their words engender in me. And I call myself a Christian...

I am in a mortal struggle with the REAL enemy to overcome this sinful anger and to bring my political foes to God in the distinct prayers I am expected to exercise on their behalf. Yet, doing so will surely change my emotions towards them -- if I want that...

The Greek words are inserted in Origen's quote to illustrate the dimensions of prayer that I often omit. I can not remember offering a single prayer of thanksgiving for the authorities I oppose. Yes, oppose. How am I to live in peace if I am so conflicted?

That is the issue. Will I obey Paul's admonitions, and strive in all sincerity for the health, well-being, and happiness of those whom I see "vandalizing" my ideal polity? Do I really want the Holy Spirit to interpret my groans for them in a beneficial way to the ear of Christ? And have my Saviour defend these foes in the court of God? Oh, do I have work to do.

My prayer today: My King, mend the hatefulness of my heart...enable me to pray for those who hate me, in Spirit and in Truth, rather than begrudging resentment. If I, who claim to follow Jesus, cannot obey Him in this, how can I expect other than enmity from my foes? How could insincere prayer not stink in God's nose? Help me change, oh Lord.

(1) "On Prayer," Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture, NT X, Gorday, Ed.

11/16/2018, 8/23/2024