Pray for a revival
by Pastor Steve Liersch
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‘Then afterward I will pour out my spirit on all flesh … Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved’ (Joel 2:28a,32a).
There are situations around the world right now that need for a lot to happen to return to ‘normal’ – whatever that means. Trade wars, cyber-attacks, the COVID pandemic death toll continuing to climb, the severe civil unrest that doesn’t seem to be slowing down at all, media attacks on politicians, trial by talkback radio. The list could go on. And we could lament and wish for the ‘good old days’. You know the ones. Those were the days when everyone went to church and believed in God. When there was no sport on Sunday, and most jobs were nine to five. Years ago, when we knew every person in our town, village or street. The era when we could send the children out to play for hours without worrying what might happen to them. Was there ever such a time? Really?
But what would we most like to return to now? Freedom of travel? No lockdowns or threat of face masks? No social media, so we’re not continually bombarded with an unknown person’s opinion that shatters another person’s self-esteem? This list could go on also.
It seems that times of humanity living through some good times for a season and then experiencing the bad times is an age-old cycle dating back throughout history. Where’s God in all this? I sometimes wonder what God must be thinking as he reflects on the ability of people to ruin a good thing. I don’t dwell there for too long because it’s too disheartening. All that sin. All that failure, depravity, stupidity, unleashed evil, destruction, cowardice, greed. This list could go on too.
What does this lead God to do? Our God of new beginnings speaks words of renewal and new life. ‘I will pour out my Spirit on all people.’ God is promising to unleash the most powerful ‘force’ in the universe onto a tiny planet called Earth and bring salvation, healing, restoration and hope. You and I live here. We call it home – for now. But we know and believe there’s better coming because that same Spirit has led us to Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. Let the revival begin anew.
What would you list as the most important things you want God to revive, renew or change for the better?
Lord God Almighty, pour out your Holy Spirit afresh into the hearts of the world’s leaders, those in positions of influence and power so that your will can be done in and through them. Please help me be consistent in lifting them to your throne of grace so that you may be honoured and your eternal banquet room filled to overflowing. Amen.
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