The words of a favourite hymn say much of what I think we are doing when we pray in response to someone who is 'standing in the need of prayer.'
They also describe the nature of the pastoral relationship, and the deep ties of fellowship in Christ, the conduits of love through which passes the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit.
We are pilgrims on a journey.
We are brothers on the road.
We are here to help each other
Walk the mile and bear the load.
I will hold the Christ-light for you
In the night time of your fear.
I will hold my hand out to you;
Speak the peace you long to hear.
I will weep when you are weeping.
When you laugh, I’ll laugh with you.
I will share your joy and sorrow
Till we’ve seen this journey through.
Leave a Reply