Portions of the South have just been ravaged by tornadoes. Yet, some intercessors are looking two weeks ahead, when the Mississippi River is projected to crest at the highest level since 1937. Although everyone along this massive, roiling body of water will be concerned, this particular post regards the Delta.
I live in the Mississippi Delta, a large flat basin that historically was flooded by the river every year. It is now protected by a 98-mile mainline levee and 18 miles of backwater levees on the tributaries. Though the Delta is sparsely populated farmland, the region includes 250,000 people.
In Mississippi, many intercessors have gotten to know one another through various ecumenical alliances, women’s groups, and ministerial associations. These ideas on how to pray have surfaced from informal conversations over the last two days. They are thought-provoking.
I. Speaking to the elements
During last year’s tornado, a godly intercessor was hiding in the restroom of a bank as the tornado blew through. She said three times, “Peace, be still, to the storm.” The bank was virtually untouched; everything around it was flattened.
In speaking to the storm, Jesus gave us a model of speaking to the elements. Regarding the crest, we can speak to the destructive river currents, “Peace, be still. Align yourself with God’s intended purpose.” We can speak to the earth in the levees, “Peace, be still. Be still and hold firm.”
II. Applying the Blood
My hometown Yazoo City is the Gateway to the Delta. We can apply the Blood of the Lamb to the doorposts and lintel of the spiritual gateway to the Delta. The Blood of Jesus says to the Angel of Death, You must pass over. Since the mainline levee is at the site of the “gateway” of the Mississippi River into the Delta, we can also apply the Blood of the Lamb there.
III. Isaiah 61
An anointed Mississippi intercessor received this passage from the Lord before the news of the crest. Highway 61 runs through the heart of the Delta. We are wondering if there is a connection. The Delta is a land of poverty and devastated families. There have been prophecies of a religious revival in the Delta.
And they shall rebuild the ancient ruins; they shall raise up the former desolations and renew the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.
Does this relate to the crest of the river? We don’t know.
IV. Prayer walking
The levees are earthen embankments with a gravel or paved road along the top. Another idea is to drive or walk along the levees and pray.
