The ministry of presence - A prayer for 614 Regent Park

For a small community, Williams Lake experiences a lot of death, most of which is within the First Nations community. It often goes unnoticed by us city dwellers; no obituaries in the paper or funeral service announcements. Recently, a family in our corps lost a family member in a tragic car accident. The funeral was held out of town on reserve and was set for a time when we were out of town. We made arrangements for people from the corps to attend. As it turned out this gesture meant a great deal to the family as they expressed their appreciation and thanks to the corps body for their support. The ministry of presence is powerful, the previous post by Sharon spoke to this in the context of Jesus' presence.

Yesterday, Geoff called from Toronto to tell us a mutual friend had died. Corps 614Toronto is grieving the loss of a friend and loved one, the loss of potential and more infuriating, the loss of a battle. In the midst of this grieving God is there. The Lord's redeemed will return to Him, sorrow and mourning will flee away. He is the One who comforts. (Isa.51)

Loving Father, thank you for being present in all things. Use your Spirit to bring comfort and peace into the hearts of friends who are sad today. Give your strength to servants who will minister in your Name to help bring healing to broken hearts. Give your power to leaders who keep fighting for justice and mercy. Give your hope to everyone who is burdened and struggling for answers. In the powerful name of Jesus, amen.

Deana