Are Any Among You Suffering?

“Are any among you suffering? They should keep on praying about it. And those who have reason to be thankful should continually sing praises to the Lord.” James 5: 13

This chapter in James refers to the ‘power of prayer’. So many of us have witnessed this power right here at Holy Trinity as we pray each Sunday for our sisters and brothers in need, at Intercessory Prayer once a month, as we kneel at the Altar after receiving communion each week, as we sit in the pews and pray, we have seen God’s power. I have seen God’s power! But, do we sing his praises?

When I was diagnosed two years ago with a malignant melanoma I felt lost and alone, although my friends, Church family and Pastor Mary were always by my side. It was hard to think of singing praises. At each surgeon appointment, or oncologist appointment, I tried desperately not to listen to the “odds” and to remain faithful that there were no odds, only God and my faith! Yes, I cried and yes there were days I had a “pity party”, but I knew the prayers that were being said for me and I felt God’s work and presence within me. With each person that came to visit and each card that arrived, I felt his arms around me and knew all would be well.

After two years and many doctors visits I believe I do “sing praises to the Lord”, not just from the choir loft, but in my conversations with people, especially fellow cancer survivors. I tell everyone that it is through prayer that we are healed: body, mind and spirit. I give the credit to the Lord, knowing I would not be healed without him.

It is a perfect time, now, during Lent, to shout from the rooftops praises to the Lord. It is a perfect time, always, to sing his praises.

Dearest Lord – we know it is you that makes us whole. We know you answer prayers and that your will be done. Give us the humility to realize you are loving and powerful and that as your children we know all will be well in your name. Thank you for healing, thank you for always being there for us, and may we continue to sing your praises!

With love and gratitude,

Cindy Markus

 cindy.atthebeach@att.net