There are a couple pluses in going back to a temporary placement with the same department where I worked last year’s temporary placement. First, I didn’t have to learn a new language or an entirely new set of processes and routines. Yes, some things have changed, and I will need to get up to speed on those, but I know what the acronyms stand for along with why and what needs to happen. While I’m physically having to adjust, I’m not mentally as tired as when I had to learn all that last year.
The second plus is that I get to work with the same people. I was there two days and already had an opportunity for prayer with someone going through a rough time. It was just a natural, “let me pray with you,” that was accepted and welcomed.
One of the things I love about the Epistles in the New Testament is how often the writers make note of their prayers. In Paul’s letter to Philemon, he is barely passed the standard salutation when he makes note of his prayers for Philemon. “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.” [Verses 4-5 NIV]
Paul in his private prayers was quite particular about remembering his friends. He called them by name, lifting them up to the LORD. It appears that he also mentioned before God his thanksgiving for their faith and their actions of faith.
We must remember our Christian friends much and often in our prayers. Sometimes we lift their needs, and sometimes we offer thanksgiving before our God for their faith and their good acts and deeds. Those of faith who accompany us through this life should always be in our thoughts, and upon our hearts before our God. Can you imagine going through this life without Christians walking beside you? I can’t.
