The Burden & Blessing of Intercession
We can also no longer escape the realization that the ministry of intercession requires time of every Christian, but most of all of the pastor who has the responsibility of a whole congregation. Intercession alone, if it is thoroughly done, would consume the entire time of daily meditation. So pursued, it will become evident that intercession is a gift of God’s grace for every Christian community and for every Christian. Because intercession is such an incalculably great gift of God, we should accept it joyfully. The very time we give to intercession will turn out to be a daily source of new joy in God and in the Christian community.
—Dietrich Bonhoeffer,
Life Together
Intercession is one of the most profound expressions of love we can offer—standing in the gap for others, bringing their needs, wounds, and hopes before God. It lifts us out of self-focus and into the heart of Christ, who lives to intercede for us. When we pray for others, we participate in His ministry, carrying the burdens of those we love—and even those we struggle to love—into the light of God’s grace. Intercession is not only a gift to those we pray for, but a blessing to us as well; it softens our hearts, deepens our compassion, and reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. In lifting others up, we often find our own hearts lifted too. —DH
—David Hoskins, Founder & Care Guide, Sanctuary Clinics