Boston Marathon Prayer Guide

Earlier this week, I met a man who ran the Boston Marathon.  I was at Starbucks when he walked in.  He was probably in his 60's.  Apparently he is a regular, because everyone began calling him by name.  It was his first day back from the race.  Whatever people were working on didn't matter at that point.  All eyes were on him.  We all had thousands of unanswered questions.  He told everyone he was fine and wasn't in danger at any point.  He said, "You know how I found out about it?  I ran past one water station, and everyone was on their knees praying.  I thought that was odd.  Then, I ran past the next water station, and everyone was on their knees praying.  I knew something bad happened."

I was very moved by his story.  Before he witnessed any of the carnage, the pain, the suffering, the evil...he witnessed love, compassion, and faith.  He saw light first and darkness second.

Prayer was the natural instinct of people who saw the effects of sin, and we should also respond to this tragedy in prayer.  Here are some ways you can pray for all those involved:

1.  Pray for the government.  As of this post, one suspect is dead and one still on the loose.  Pray for the suspect to be apprehended so justice can be served.  Also pray the government would trace this back to the source and stop future attacks before they happen.  God uses government to enforce justice and protect people.  Pray for God to help them and protect them.  

2.  Pray for the families of victims who died.  

Pray for Krystle Campbell's family.  Her parents went to the hospital thinking she was alive.  They walked into the room and found Krystle's friend alive.  The doctors informed them they had the two mixed-up.  

Pray for Martin Richard's parents, Bill and Denise, and his younger sister, Jane.  Martin was killed in the explosion, and his Mom and sister were seriously injured. 

   

Pray for Lu Lingzi's parents.  China's one-child-policy made Lu the only child in her house.  Her parents are heartbroken and their dreams are dashed.  

3.  Pray for the victims who are still recovering from major injuries.  

You can find a list of victims HERE.

"Pray without ceasing."  1 Thess. 5:17

"Weep with those who weep."  Romans 12:15

-Pastor Ryan