In the book, Fresh Encounters, author Henry Blackaby relates the following story:

A Christian college professor seemed to have a great career. He was active in his church but did not attend the church prayer meeting. He enjoyed a comfortable income and took pride in his boldness for expressing his convictions. But difficulty arose with the head of his college department, and he was told he would lose his job. Devastated, the professor began to attend the weekly prayer meeting and share his personal struggles with his church family. They prayed for him and encouraged him as he appealed the decision by the college department. He won his appeal. The professor had discovered and lived out a deeper faith than ever before.

However, the department head appealed the ruling. This time, in preparation for the final hearing, the professor did not leave his destiny in God’s hands but instead hired a well-known attorney. The fulfilling relationship he discovered with Christ began to wane. He stopped attending the prayer meetings as he and his attorney feverishly prepared a defense. Advised by his attorney, he stopped sharing his prayer requests with his church family. The attorney prepared a seemingly foolproof case, so it came as a shock when he lost his case and was dismissed from his job. Many Christians claim to trust in God, but their actions prove they rely on worldly methods and resources to receive things God promised to provide Himself.

Once again we see the power of prayer at work when God’s people pray and we see our own foolishness when we attempt to “go it on our own.” A First Church member asked the other day, “Why are we so slow to pray?” When will we realize to go to God as our first resort rather than our last one?

Beginning next Wednesday evening, Feb. 23: we’ll explore the practice of prayer through the eyes and experiences of Pastor Jim Cymbala of Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York City. Robin and I have had the privilege of worshipping in his church several years ago and met Jim last September in Colorado Springs. His video series is entitled “When God’s People Pray” and will feature short teachings by him and great Small Group discussions. No matter where you are in your prayer life – from beginners to mature believers – we all can benefit from this teaching and sharing together. We learn from each other! Remember our Mission: First Church exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Prayer is the key. Prayer is our relationship with Jesus Christ. We’ve been learning how to hear and respond to His promptings and whispers individually; this will take us one step deeper as we learn to pray together. I was reading several chapters in Acts again today – trying to “catch up” on my Bible Reading Plan and I was struck by how often the first disciples stopped to pray before they did most anything, even choosing “waiters” (Acts 6).

The first book I asked the Staff to read when I arrived at First Church was “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire” by Jim Cymbala. I mentioned it again in Worship a week ago. If you’ve not read it, I’d encourage you to pick up a copy. You will be encouraged, amazed and blessed! Hope you’ll make to plan to join us for this six week adventure. Study guides are available in The Plaza for a discount at $6. Blessings!

Yours in Christ,

Mark

PS – Get Ready! “Marathon Mania” is just about here! This year’s OKC Memorial Marathon is Sunday May 1, 2011! Begin to pray now!