Purpose

A stranger beside me utters words to God on my behalf. Words that only she and her master understand. Words that she hopes will have some impact on my life in a positive way. Why she chose to pray over me is a mystery for there are easily hundreds of other women and teens seated around us in this place. I too am praying silently, fervently  this evening, tears flowing like rivulets that I cannot control. Oh but there is no mastering this salty water, that escapes my eyes faster than I can wipe it away. Yet even this is good because it is a soul-cleansing cry I so desperately need. My spirit is aching and I am hungry for more. 


Tonight is about being in the presence of his glory and calling out to Jesus. It is the right time to surrender many things which have held me captive for so long. 


Moments pass between two strangers, how many moments I cannot say. And then a word of encouragement forms on her lips, this woman decades younger than myself. I am straining to hear, partly excited for the word or words she will bring me, and partly fearful that I am unable to receive a blessing. I lean in close, and hear the echo of my own individual prayer --"purpose," she says. "That is the word, the prayer, the utterance God gave me for you. Take it, receive it and may the Lord give you new purpose."  My purpose in this life is ever changing, but his words that nourish the soul come in the most unexpected & delightful ways.


"When you call on me, when you come and pray to me, I'll listen. When you come looking for me, you'll find me. Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed."  Jeremiah 29:12-14 (the Message)