Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: April 1, 2023
About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice…‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ (Matthew 27:46)
Why have you forsaken me? These words from Jesus, just before he died on the cross, are powerful. They speak of his extreme pain and the separation he felt between him and God.
Jesus was fully divine, yet able to experience the depths of humanity. In other words, he knows what it is to suffer. And to feel far from God.
As we approach the penultimate week of our Lent series, we invite you to reflect on these words to guide your prayers while we await the Easter weekend.
Join us in praying...
- For Christians around the world, who are often targeted during festivals like Easter. Pray for their protection. Pray for those who may feel anxious and fearful, knowing that Easter makes them more vulnerable to harassment or even attack. May the Lord of peace be their comfort today and always.
- On Easter Sunday 2019, suicide bombers launched a series of coordinated attacks on churches and hotels across Sri Lanka. Over 250 people were killed, and some 500 more were injured. Pray for continued physical and emotional healing for those who were injured or lost loved ones; and for Sri Lanka to better protect religious minorities.
- And finally, pray for those who feel abandoned or alone this Easter, which should be a time for celebration and community. Pray that every individual who is struggling will feel the hope of the Gospel afresh.