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LORD, something is wrong.  I am wrong.  What I’ve done is wrong.  So wrong my soul hurts.  So wrong my bones ache. 

During the night I sleep on a bed of bawling.  During the day I sit on a couch of crying. 

But you have heard my weeping.  You have heard my tears. 

You accept my prayer. 

You accept me.

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Today is the 20th day of Lent, a 40 day season of spiritual reflection, repentance, and renewal.  During these 40 days we’ll explore the prayer life of Jesus, walking chronologically through every mention of Jesus’ prayer life and prayers in the Gospels.

Here is today’s prayer event:  31″Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, 32but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” 33Peter said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” 34 Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.” (Luke 22:31-34 ESV)

Jesus knows that Peter is about to deny him.  One of Jesus’ three closest friends is about to stab him in the back.  Still, Jesus prays for him.  Jesus prays that Peter’s “faith may not fail.”  Jesus spends some of his last moments praying for the faith of one who won’t even have the courage to admit that he is a follower of Jesus.

Whether you keep a mental or written prayer list, how many people like Peter are on it?  My tendency is to remove from my prayer list the people who make my life painful.  Jesus’ tendency is to add them to his list.  Who are the challenging, difficult, irritating, disappointing, and aggravating people in your life?  Add them to your prayer list and start praying!

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This morning I bow before you.  You are my King.  You are my God.  I lay my requests before you.  And I wait expectantly–knowing you will answer.

Today, LORD, defeat evil in whatever place it dwells and in whatever form it takes.  Let this morning be the last morning that violence, wickedness, and malice see.

And today, LORD, nurture good in whatever place it dwells and in whatever form it takes.  Let this morning bring hope, help, and haven to all who stand for what is right.

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