He has sent me to tell those who mourn
that the time of the Lord’s favor has come,
and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies.
3 To all who mourn in Israel,
he will give a crown of beauty for ashes,
a joyous blessing instead of mourning,
festive praise instead of despair.
In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks
that the Lord has planted for his own glory.
4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins,
repairing cities destroyed long ago.
They will revive them,
though they have been deserted for many generations.
Isaiah 61:2-4
I sit and type this after receiving word that the home of a dear friend of mine is being ravaged by fire. This dear friend has been through so much this year, losing their spouse only a few months ago. I cannot imagine what my friend is experiencing right now. Our care team has already lept into action, covering this family in prayers and making initial plans to help this family. Praise God that He has people in place standing ready to help! Many of us have been on our knees in prayer before our Lord from the moment we heard about the fire. How my heart breaks for this family!
As I prayed God immediately brought to mind Isaiah 61:2-4. So I am asking everyone who reads this blog to please pray this verse for this dear friend and her family. Please pray for the Lord to bring forth a crown of beauty from the ashes for this family. Please pray for Him to bring them joyous blessings and festive praise! Please pray for God to grow them into oaks of righteousness, planted for the Lord's glory and able to stand against the ravages of this world!
Please pray for this dear, sweet family. Thank you, friends!
In His Love, Cathy
2 comments:
I'm so grateful you are not only her friend, but mine. Thank you for your heart for prayer, Cathy. It really is what makes the difference in any situation... especially when we cannot understand.
Thank you for this posting and for the scripture. I will print if for her and hand it to her in the morning.
Love you, my sister.
dk
Prayer is the FIRST thing we should do everytime. And, our loving Father bends down to listen. I will continue to pray and ask that everyone continues to pray for this family.
I was amazed to witness God in action, immediately answering prayers over this family. About a dozen people (or more) at Wal Mart late last night, purchasing clothes and items for this family (I just missed you guys). People at her home, helping her go through and search for anything salvageable. And I understand there were so many special things that did survive the flames. God provided in a HUGE way in such a short time. He never ceases to amaze me!
Thank you for the kind words. I pray this will be an encouragement for T & the girls!
Love you, too, DK!
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