Some people collect coins, while others prefer stamps. At least one person I know collects people - for his prayer list.
Unlike the FBI's most wanted list, once you get on my prayer list, you stay on. It includes family, friends, neighbors, acquaintances and a few a people I have never met. Of course, I have had to make some modifications to the prayer intentions.
Quite a few people who had serious medical problems have died. That's why the prayer for that group is for those facing medical problems, and those who have left the pain of this life forever and are waiting to meet God.
I don't always mention the names in the same order, but the list always starts with my wife Jo Ann.
One day, I realized that I don't usually put in a request to God for myself during the daily prayers. However, before I could start to feel self-satisfied, I came to another realization.
My lead-off request is always for Jo Ann for her health and special intentions. I am sure that her special intentions include me, so I am praying for myself - indirectly.
I suppose one answer to these prayers is that when you love someone, you place them before yourself. Another, even more important one, is that we make God our top priority.
Loving God and loving others. Those loves are God's intentions for us.
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God's intentions
are the best of intentions.
