When situation arises that we are not able to provide and assist people in need, the Scripture provides a great insight as to what we ought to do. Praying for others’ needs, that is the ministry of intercession, is highlighted in this parable as a friend who do not have bread, knew to whom he should go and knock, even at midnight, that he may win bread for his visitor, “I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs.” (Lk 11:8). Moses, the great leader of Israel, won favour from the Lord by his ministry of intercession, “‘Please pardon the iniquity of this people, according to the greatness of your steadfast love, just as you have forgiven this people, from Egypt until now.’ Then the Lord said, ‘I have pardoned, according to your word.’”(Num 14:19-20). Abraham, the father of faith, exercised this ministry of intercession for six times to obtain mercy for his fellow men, “Then he said, ‘May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak just once more. What if only ten can be found there?’ He answered, ‘For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.’ And the Lord went his way” (Gen 18: 32-33). Paul also encourages us by setting before, Christ’s own ministry of intercession for us, “Christ. . .is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us” (Rom 8:34). Let’s know to whom we should go, and keep knocking for the others.

Abba, thank you for honoring the sincere intercessions. Let your Spirit help us exercise the ministry of intercession, in Jesus’ name, Amen.