I think it is safe to say that most people pray for a variety of things: families, friends, jobs, the church we attend, and many similar items. However, there is often something missing in our prayers – our nation. I think you would agree that our nation needs continual prayers, but now more than ever. With the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting angry rhetoric on social media, criticism of state and national leaders no matter what they do, and general fear of the future, our nation needs prayer!
It so happens we are coming up on a day dedicated to just that: National Day of Prayer, to be held on May 7 this year. This event reminds us to focus on our country and thank God for the freedoms we share, as well as the challenges we all face as Americans.
This year’s National Day of Prayer event in North Dakota is again the result of proclamations by the President and by Governor Burgum. Every state governor, plus the governors of several U.S. territories, typically sign similar proclamations. It is estimated that in recent years over two million people have attended more than 30,000 observances.
National Day of Prayer is based on our understanding that this country was birthed in prayer and in reverence for the God of the Bible. Our founding fathers were people of faith and they established our great country on these principles. They knew that our country could only survive and flourish by the grace and provision of our God. As Patrick Henry so eloquently put it, “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.” Freedom and liberty find their roots in our faith, and our faith is sustained and strengthened through prayer.
As in past years, our state’s National Day of Prayer events will focus on seven key areas: government, church, business, military, family, education, and media. Prayer events will be held in various places across North Dakota, but as you might expect, the formats will be different than in past years. Due to COVID-19, each location will be holding their event in a unique manner.
To find an event near you and details on how it will be held, simply:
- Go to the National Day of Prayer website
- Choose our state
- Make sure the box that says “Search ONLY VIRTUAL Events” is unchecked (this ensures you will see both virtual and live events)
- Click “Find Events”
Thank you again for lifting up our nation and state to God in prayer!
Sincerely,
Mark Jorritsma
President and Executive Director