Day 1: Prayers for Churches Serving Children

Posted on August 19, 2012

Engagement of the Church in the Community

Did you know that the Faith Community has the potential to transform our community? With more than 4,100 local churches, Houston is uniquely positioned to serve God’s purposes and plans for the children of our city.

Many churches and organizations are already engaged. Can you imagine what might happen if all of the churches across the city got involved in serving the needs of the most vulnerable children among us?

We know God has instructed us to focus on children. “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”  And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.  (Mark 10:13-16)

Let’s Pray
Father, you have called us to be your witnesses in our community and beyond. (Acts 1:8)  We understand this includes expressing your heart and care for the children and youth of Greater Houston. Thank you that you have been helping us recognize the needs in our community. Thank you that you have been helping us respond as your people – together. (John 17:23)

As we enter into this week of prayer, we pray for the renewal of your church in the greater Houston area. Though the church is serving the most vulnerable in our city in some pretty remarkable ways, we need you to grow our capacity because the needs are so great.  This week in the Week of Prayer and Service for Children and Youth, we will pray for children, but we will also pray for congregations and ministries across the city to expand their reach.

Our first action is to seek you in prayer. We recognize that you alone have the capacity to meet the many challenges before our children.  We are not relying on our own capacities but upon yours. (Luke 18:27)

Father, we are asking you to come and do more than we can ask or imagine. (Ephesians 3:20-21) Give us your heart for the children and youth of this city. Break our hearts with the things that break your heart. Raise up Houston to be a city that is know for whole and healthy children. All of this we ask in the name of Jesus, and for the sake of the children of our city.