Prayer: Rebirth and Renewal by Baptism
Then the angel of the LORD came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.”
He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with Me.” (1Kings 19:7, Matt 26:38 NLT)
The ‘Stand Firm Prayer and Revival Conference’ ends today, but the renewed strength should now be released into vigorous operation. The need for concerted prayers is still on: First, we need to seek and listen from God to clearly receive His divine direction for the season in various aspects of our lives and our country Uganda, especially in this year of preparing for elections; Secondly, pray for Kyambogo University and the Education Sector that is charged with grooming children and youth in this postmodern era; Thirdly, pray for Chapel ministry which reaches the congregation here and extends far and wide, as those who leave should go and continue serving; Fourth, pray for various needs in our homes and families. Looking back to Elijah and Jesus reminds me about the relationship between fasting and baptism, as depicted in the prayer we use to consecrate baptism water.
The Israelite nation was incubated in Egypt, and at the fullness of time Moses led them out. They were ‘baptised’ in the Red Sea – a sign of rebirth and renewal. When they were ready to enter the Promised Land, just before they would cross the Jordan River, their then leader gave a very important instruction: And Joshua said to the people, Sanctify yourselves [that is, separate yourselves for a special holy purpose], for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you (Josh 3:5 AMP). We prepare to take over new grounds and to see God’s wonders by ‘sanctifying, consecrating or purifying’ ourselves. Do you see ourselves crossing into new territories or taking on a new assignment or position for God’s greater glory? Then take time to separate, sanctify and consecrate yourself before the Lord – in prayer.
Prophet Elijah and our Lord Jesus Christ, as quoted in the opening Scriptures above, also had those moments of retreat for re-strengthening in tough situations and ahead of major encounters with divine purpose. The angel’s message to Elijah (after which he was baptised 40-day fast!) – ‘Get up and eat some more’ – reminds us that for increased spiritual vitality, we need to get up and eat some more spiritual food to energize us to fly higher in God-given assignments. And Jesus (before he was baptised in the deep waters of death) requested his three close disciples to stay and watch with him while he agonized and prayed indicates our need for corporate prayers – it is not just the intercessor or the fellowship leader; even the Senior Pastor will not do it all alone. You are invited to provide prayer support.
As we embrace Renewed Zeal for Gospel Ministry – a practical theme for this year – let us continue in the discipline of seeking the Lord who renews and strengthens us to fly higher.
God bless you all. Happy New Year!