PRAYER: Time of true inspiration

My husband and I attended the National Day of Prayer gathering on May 5 at the Coeur d'Alene City Hall and were encouraged by the leaders, the music and all those who came to pray for our nation. Fifteen pastors from our area gave prayers and scripture readings. The content included many areas of concern to all of us, not just the concerns of those who attended.

To all in leadership in our homes, our schools, our community, our vital services, our city, state and federal government, our service men and women and our president, know that you were prayed for that day. If you serve in any of these capacities, you were prayed for. Even if you are simply a resident of Kootenai County, you were prayed for. One of the most moving prayers for me was the prayer given by Gary Brown of Reach America as he led in prayer for the youth of Kootenai County. Our youth, our young people, those who will someday be in leadership positions in our city, state, schools or government. May young people be encouraged knowing that they were prayed for that day.

The prayers for our nation also included those of humility before God, prayers of repentance, prayers of a return to Biblical foundations in all areas of our lives, prayers of strength, prayers of receiving God's grace in our lives and prayers of new beginnings. There is power in communal prayer and great encouragement. There is renewed hope and inspiration that our future is not dark.

We were grateful to be a part of this open prayer time on the public square lifting up the name of Jesus and God freely without fear of retribution as is not the case in many countries. This may change someday, but for now, we still have freedom of speech and freedom of religion. God is good and He has indeed blessed this nation. We are proud to be Americans and grateful to God for His blessings on our land. I hope many more will take advantage of National Day of Prayer next year the first week in May. In the meantime, prayer can be practiced every day on the same subjects.

MARY LOU THOMPSON

Hayden