John 7:45-49

Then the officers came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why have you not brought him?” (John 7:45)
      Jesus, the chief priests and Pharisees of the Episcopal Church are trying to seize the churches and property of those who follow you.

The officers answered, “No man ever spoke like this man!” (John 7:46)
      Holy Spirit, help all those who serve the leaders and teachers of the Episcopal Church to hear Jesus’ words to them.

Then the Pharisees answered them, “Are you also deceived? Have any of the rulers or the Pharisees believed in him? ‘ (John 7:47-48 )
      Father, that is the problem today, most of the leaders and teachers of the Episcopal Church do not believe in your son Jesus

“But this crowd that does not know the law is accursed.” (John 7:49)
      LORD, have mercy on us: some of those who have theological training hold your little ones in contempt. Protect the lost and the least from their corruption and false teaching. Thank you.

A word received: Look to me to steady you on the path.

Study Guide: Summer Sunday Lesson 12, September 2, 2012
Readings: Mark 7:1-23; Ephesians 6:10-20; Deuteronomy 4:1-9; Ps. 15:1-2

      Gospel: Mark 7:1-23

(verse 1-5) A word received: What are your traditions that get in the way of knowing me?

      Epistle: Ephesians 6:10-20

A word received: You are in a war: be equipped for the battle.

      Old Testament: Deuteronomy 4:1-9

(verse 2) A word received: This is a generation which adds and subtracts from my word. Pray for obedience to my word — all of it.

      Psalm: Ps. 15:1-2

(verse 2) A word received: Pray for my truth to lodge in your heart.

Friday: 16, 17 * 22; Job 9:1-15,32-35: Acts 10:34-48: John 7:37-52
Saturday: 20, 21:1-7(8-14) * 110:1-5(6-7), 116, 117; Job 9:1,10:1-9,16-22: Acts 11:1-18: John 8:12-20;

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Schenectady City Mission Prayer Table Report, Thursday August 30, 5:15 – 6:30 p.m.. Torre and Jean Bissell, and Chuck Rinaldo from Christ Church Schenectady. This took place during the evening meal at the City Mission.

+–indicates received a wooden cross made by Dennis Adams of North Carolina

(Man) — He was rejoicing over answered prayer.

Anthony — We prayed that he will be an effective role model to the younger men at the Schenectady City Mission.

+Lucile (woman with 6 small children and 1 teenage boy, see below) — She asked prayer “for my family and our situation. She lifted up her hands in praise to God when I anointed her with Holy Water.

+Anthony (teenage boy) — We prayed that he would grow into the manhood Jesus has for him.

+Jewy (older woman) — We prayed for her son Michael who is in prison on a gun charge.

+Damire (Lucile’s son) — He is in the 3rd grad, age 9. “For my mom.”
+Lindaya (Lucile’s daugher) — 6 years old.
+Lildya (Lucile’s daugher) — 5 years old.
+Zion (Lucile’s son) — He is age 9.

Eleanor (woman) — She asked prayer for the Burnett Family in their time of sorrow over the death of a father. She also asked prayer for her boyfriend who is in the Schenectady County Jail.

Chuck and +Colby — It is a weekly joy to see them and the love that Chuck has for his young son. He is a great role model in teaching his son to pray.

+Enshalis (woman), Anthony (teenage boy age 17) and +Adonis (boy age 12) — We spent a long time in prayer with this family. She asked prayer that a settlement would quickly move through the court system so that she can take her family home to Georgia. Anthony asked for a Bible and so did Enshalis. We gave them NIVs from the City Mission. Anthony asked where to find “The Lord is my shepherd.” I took him to Psalm 23. Then I took him to Psalm 37. He read the whole of it and you could the words sinking into his heart.

Gary — We prayed for him and his wife Debbie.

***** Prayer requests from Willowfield parish in Belfast, Northern Ireland:
Date: Fri, 31 Aug 2012
From: Ronnie O’Neill
Subject: Prayer Request: a lost lamb…
Liz Featherstonhaugh sent this in; Please give it your attention Thx Ronnie’O
Ronnie, can you send this around the Prayer Chain from Ratanak please.
Subject: a lost lamb…
      Hey all,
      We need a miracle.
      One of our girls who was sold at a very young age, was rescued at 17 years old. She was totally drug addicted but has made a remarkable recovery and was thriving at Bloom.
      Her mum has rung up gambling debts and has been coercing her for the past 2 months to go back to sex work to help pay off her huge debts.
      Last week when she didn’t turn up to work, Liep & I went to visit her in her tiny one bedroom house. When we got there she was reading her bible (she didn’t know we were coming!) and told us that if God can heal the blind and raise the dead to life, surely He could solve her situation. She looked up with tears in her eyes, and told us, “I don’t want to go back, but I want my mummy to love me…” We prayed with her, and she came back to Bloom.
      But today she hasn’t come to work and has sent Chan (her Bloom big sister/mentor) a text saying, ‘Sorry Bong’.
      She is so damaged and craves her mother’s love so much…
      We are all quite devastated. She is such a sweetie and has so much talent.!
      Can you pray that the Good shepherd will not rest until this ‘one’ is brought back safely to us.
      Our God is bigger than the spirits that want to destroy her.
      Pray that the Holy Spirit will speak to her spirit and she will know the truth that she is more than a body to be used & sold.
      Pray that she will be free from the unhealthy bonds of her mother.
      Pray that God will heal her mind and heart and give her strength to believe in her worth.
      Pray for her personal safety.
      Much love to you all,

***** Date: Thu, 30 Aug 2012
From: Nigel Mumford
Subject: Daily quote 1/5
      1/5
      Content?
      To be satisfied with what one is or has and not wanting more or anything else.
      Here follows thought one of five daily thoughts on being content.
      I pray that you might be content in your life.
      I pray that you might practice being content.
      Philippians 4:11 writes: I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ~ Fr. Nigel Mumford+

Albany Intercessor

John 7:37-39

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. (John 7:37)
      Jesus, I come to you; help me receive all that you are offering me.

He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” (John 7:38 )
      Holy Spirit, let the river flow!

But this he spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (John 7:39)
      Father, thank you for the glory you have given your son Jesus. We pray that every believer would receive the anointing and peace of your Holy Spirit. Thank you for the sake of your son Jesus. Amen.

A word received: Pray that my word will take root in the hearts of my people.

Thursday: 18:1-20 * 18:21-50; Job 6:1,7:1-21: Acts 10:17-33: John 7:14-36
Friday: 16, 17 * 22; Job 9:1-15,32-35: Acts 10:34-48: John 7:37-52

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Wed, 29 Aug 2012
From: Nigel Mumford
Subject: Daily quote
      Perhaps you are processing.
      The Lord is with you as you process.
      The Lord goes beyond the process.
      Way beyond…
      Let Him help you in the process…

Albany Intercessor

John 7:12-13

And there was much complaining among the people concerning him. Some said, “He is good”; others said, “No, on the contrary, he deceives the people.” However, no one spoke openly of him for fear of the Jews. (John 7:12-13)
      Jesus, so little has changed — so many fear to speaking openly about you for fear of other’s opinions.

      Holy Spirit, give us the courage and the discernment to know when to speak about Jesus to others.

      Father, help us make Jesus’ deeds known so that all the world will be drawn to him. Thank you.

A word received: Look to me in the storms of life.

Wednesday: 119:1-24 * 12, 13, 14; Job 6:1,7:1-21: Acts 10:1-16: John 7:1-13
Thursday: 18:1-20 * 18:21-50; Job 6:1,7:1-21: Acts 10:17-33: John 7:14-36

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Tue, 28 Aug 2012
From: Nigel Mumford
Subject: Daily quote
      All the world is a stage…
      Are you waiting in the wings?
      Live your life abundantly.
      Deuteronomy 32:2 writes, “Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.”
      ~ Fr. Nigel Mumford+

***** Date: 8/27/2012
From: Dennis Adams [who supplies us with the crosses we give out at the prayer tables.]
Torre:
      Here I am back again always when I need something. Geez
      A couple of years ago you graciously prayed for my sister Marita Shore and she was healed, but please pray for her again as we just said goodby to Frank Shore , her husband, of 36 years. He died after a week in the hospital at the age of 59 and she need prayers to heal again.
      Thanks as always, Dennis

***** Date: Tue, 28 Aug 2012
From: Ginnie Grupinski
Subject: travel prayers needed for Biship Mike Chapman
      Hello praying friends…this is from Bishop Mike…please pray and remember to put your armor on…I feel much warfare over this trip. thank you so much for your faithfulness to the Chapmans and their mission. God bless and keep you. ….at 9:30 pm (10:30pm your time) Father Misael and I will be heading into the mountains to do 3 Pastoral calls in Ayacucho and one in Huanta, Linda will be staying in Ica. Work is ever expanding here and that is what we work for…Please pray for strength and safety, health and the power of the Holy Spirit. We will be coming back down on Wednesday evening… I think. Please also pray for the new truck. Although driving is hard, there is less hassle finding transportation. Please pray that Linda will be safe from any earthquake or harm. Thank you and bless you.

Albany Intercessor

A Prayer Litany for those in Hurricane Isaac’s path

Isaac nearing landfall in LA – Aug 28 2012

Isaac’s potential storm surge

I don’t remember what hurricane was threatening the U.S. when I first discovered the following prayer liturgy. I think it may have been Hurricane Charley back in 2004, which hit SW FL as a Cat 4 storm. In any case, I’ve posted the following prayer quite a number of times in recent years, though I believe its last appearance on the blog may have been for Hurricane Ike’s landfall in Texas in 2008. I’m praying for all on the Northern Gulf Coast tonight. May the Lord show His mercy and may He protect people from danger.  – Karen.

—–

Below, I have posted once again, the hurricane prayer litany I found several years ago. The final section in bold is what draws me to this prayer time and time again. Note that below the full litany, I’ve included a slightly modified version of the section in bold to make it suitable to pray as a stand-alone collect. I am praying that all who face such peril tonight are finding comfort from the Lord and that He will send out legions of angels to protect all who call on His name today.

L: Lord, have mercy.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: Christ, have mercy.
C: Christ, have mercy.

L: Lord, have mercy.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: In the face of peril and apprehension, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: In the face of mighty winds, thunderous sounds, strong rains, and surging waves, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: In the face of complete uncertainty, as well as concern for our loved ones, here or elsewhere, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: In the face of our own vulnerable mortality, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: For the strength that God alone can give us, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: For all that it takes to keep our children calm and safe, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: For faith that can move mountains and remove all fear, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: For trust in God’s loving presence in our midst, even at this very hour, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: For trust that in life and in death, God will not abandon us, let us pray to the Lord.
C: Lord, have mercy.

L: Almighty God, we poor creatures place our lives into your hands that you might protect and guide us according to your will; Lord, in your mercy,
C: Hear, our prayer.

L: Do not hold our sins against us, but remember us in our faith and love for you; Lord, in your mercy,
C: Hear, our prayer.

L: Be our light in the darkness, our hope in the storm, our peace in the chaos, our trust in the unknown; Lord, in your mercy,
C: Hear, our prayer.

L: Mighty are your works, O Lord, and mighty is your saving hand.
Turn your ear to our petitions and supplications; Lord, in your mercy,
C: Hear, our prayer.

L: God of heaven and earth, God who carries our lives and the lives of our whole community in your hands, be with is in the peril of this day/night. Help us to release our anxieties and fears into those same caring hands, knowing in faith that your will for us is life and everlasting good. Send your holy angels to watch over us and guard us. May they spread their holy wings to give us shelter against the storm. For you alone, O God, are all good, all life, all love, and that love is for us; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

C: Amen

=====

A modified version of the final section of the Litany, suitable to be prayed as a stand-alone collect:

God of heaven and earth, God who carries our lives and the lives of [all in Isaac’s path] in your hands, be with all those in peril this day/night. Help them to release their anxieties and fears into your caring hands, knowing in faith that your will for us is life and everlasting good. Send your holy angels to watch over them and guard them. May your angels spread their holy wings to give all in danger shelter against the storm. For you alone, O God, are all good, all life, all love, and that love is for us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Covenant, land, circumcision, and Isaac

On August 21, The Times of Israel reported that a German Jewish rabbi had been arrested for performing circumcisions. The same day, NOAA issued its first advisory on tropical storm Isaac. There was a time when I would have breezily dismissed the idea of a connection between the two. However, after studying the scriptures regarding the land in Israel, I acknowledge the possibility.
In July, the US State Department described a rising tide of anti-Semitism. However, I could not find a public statement regarding the arrest.–JW

Genesis 17:8-11 (NIV)
The whole land of Canaan, where you now reside as a foreigner, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God. ”

Then God said to Abraham, “As for you, you must keep my covenant, you and your descendants after you for the generations to come. This is my covenant with you and your descendants after you, the covenant you are to keep: Every male among you shall be circumcised. You are to undergo circumcision, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and you.

O God of all life,
You are the God of Covenant. We thank You for Your steadfastness. We thank You that we can stand on Your promises.
In Genesis 14, Abraham cuts the animals of sacrifice, and You pass through as the flaming torch and smoking pot. Later, You cut a covenant through circumcision, and it became a stamp, a seal on the body of a Jew.
We pray that the righteous within nations in which the Jewish covenant of circumcision is being threatened would rise up and take a stand against this prohibition; that their legislatures will implement laws protecting the rights of Jews to perform this ancient covenant practice given them by You.

We bless the mountains of Israel. May the land shoot forth its branches and yield fruit to Your people Israel, for they will soon come home. For the sake of our family, friends, and the house of the Lord our God, we pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
“May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels. Peace be within you.”
We pray for the prosperity of Jerusalem.
Ezekiel 36:8, Psalm 122:6-9

For those persons wishing to write respectful letters of dissent to German officials, the addresses may be found here.

Acts 9:32-35

Now it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda. There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed. And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.” Then he arose immediately. So all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord. (Acts 9:32-35)
      Holy Spirit, we pray that many throughout this diocese will speak your words of healing.

      Jesus, give us the boldness that came to Peter and the discernment to know when to speak your words of healing and deliverance.

      Father, we pray that many will be drawn to Jesus by seeing the work and ministry of your Holy Spirit. Thank you.

A word received: I love you.

Tuesday: 5, 6 * 10, 11; Job 6:1-4,8-15,21: Acts 9:32-43: John 6:60-71
Wednesday: 119:1-24 * 12, 13, 14; Job 6:1,7:1-21: Acts 10:1-16: John 7:1-13

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Mon, 27 Aug 2012
From: Nigel Mumford
Subject: Daily quote
      When the stress comes, when you are in need, when an issue that needs Gods attention arises, what do you do? “I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121)
      My help does not come from the hills it comes directly from God!
      ~ Fr. Nigel Mumford+

Albany Intercessor

Tropical Storm Isaac

Seven years since Katrina, another storm is heading for the Gulf coast.
The U.S. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, which oversees offshore oil production, said Sunday that nearly 25% of the current daily oil production in the Gulf of Mexico has been shut, with nearly 50 rigs and oil platforms already evacuated in advance of the storm. In addition, more than 8% of natural gas production in the Gulf has also been halted. Refineries are being shut down.

The first well mentioned in scripture is that named by the pregnant Hagar when she ran away. An angel appeared to her by a fountain of water and instructed her to return and submit to her mistress.

Genesis 16:14 (NIV)
. . . the well was called Beer Lahai Roi; it is still there, between Kadesh and Bered.

Beer Lahai Roi means well of the Living One who sees me. Kadesh means to be consecrated, hallowed, sanctified. Bered means hail.

The next wells mentioned are related to Isaac (Genesis 26). He dug the water wells originally dug by Abraham but later filled in by the Philistines: Esek (contention), Sitnah (opposition), and Rehoboth (room). The Philistines fought for the first two.
Then he built an altar in Beersheba, received an appearance of God, and dug a last well Shebah (seven, referring to the seven lambs that were a witness of the covenant made at that place between Abraham and the king of the Philistines).

Our Father in heaven,

You are the God of creation, of heaven, and earth, and all that is therein. You are the God of the seas and the God of the atmosphere. You are the Living One who sees us.
You see us clearly; yet we see through a glass darkly and cannot apprehend what is happening in heavenly places.

However, dear Lord, we acknowledge that we are sinful creatures. We were created to love You and to love others, and we have failed. We have not reflected Your love.
We have not loved You with all our heart, mind, and soul. We have spiritually polluted our shores with idolatry—opulence, festivals of debauchery, and gambling casinos.
We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We have ignored the cries of our desperately poor Caribbean neighbors.
Have mercy, Lord. Have mercy.
Our Christian faith and the moral foundations of our society are rooted in Your relationship with the children of Israel. Yet our nation has insulted and betrayed the nation of Israel.
Every sector of our society has fallen short—the church, the government, the economy, the educational system, the media, arts and entertainment, and the family. We were made in Your image, and yet every aspect of our culture has failed to reflect Your character. Have mercy, Lord. Have mercy.

You are our only hope.

We do not know if this storm is somehow related to events in the court room of heaven. If there are voices of contention and accusation against our nation in heavenly places, we cry out for mercy– mercy on those persons in the path of Isaac, mercy for the seas and land in the path of Isaac, mercy for the oil rigs and the oil refineries.
Bless this land in every dimension and every realm. Bring us to a room of safety and provision. Like Isaac in Gerar, may we dig again the wells of living water that have been filled in by the enemy and be fruitful in the land.

You are our only hope. We worship You, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Amen.

Psalm 4:1-4

Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; have mercy on me, and hear my prayer. (Psalm 4:1)
      O God, I have no righteousness of my own, but only what I have received through the shed blood of Jesus. That righteousness relieves me of my distress.

How long, O you sons of men, will you turn my glory to shame? How long will you love worthlessness and seek falsehood? (Psalm 4:2)
      Holy Spirit, turn the hearts of the leaders and teachers of the Episcopal Church into your ways. Help them to seek after what is true and enduring.

But know that the LORD has set apart for himself him who is godly; the LORD will hear when I call to him. (Psalm 4:3)
      Father, thank you for hearing me when I call out to you.

Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. (Psalm 4:4)
      Jesus, set me free from anger and hardness of heart. Thank you.

A word received: I want you to ask for my Holy Spirit and the new life I offer through him.

A word received: Give your fears to me.

Monday: 1, 2, 3 * 4, 7; Job 4:1,5:1-11,17-21,26-27: Acts 9:19b-31: John 6:52-59
Tuesday: 5, 6 * 10, 11; Job 6:1-4,8-15,21: Acts 9:32-43: John 6:60-71

Albany Intercessor

Our nation

The last stanza of “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” by Samuel F. Smith–

Our father’s God to Thee,
Author of Liberty,
To Thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright
With freedom’s holy light
Protect us by Thy might,
Great God, our King!

John 6:65-69

And he said, “Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to me unless it has been granted to him by my Father.” (John 6:65)
Father, please help us, permit us, daily to come to Jesus.

From that time many of his disciples went back and walked with him no more. (John 6:66)
Holy Spirit, not matter how many walk away from Jesus, help us to remain and abide in him.

Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” (John 6:67)
Jesus, help us honestly recognize the times and ways we are tempted to give up.

But Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. (John 6:68)
Jesus, you do have the words of eternal life, help us remain in you.

Also we have come to believe and know that you are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (John 6:69)
Holy Spirit, please help us share our faith in Jesus with the next generation. Thank you.

A word received: Let me be your hope — put your trust in me.
A word received: Pray boldly.
A word received: Keep listening.

Sunday: 146, 147: 111, 112, 113; Job 4:1-6,12-21: Rev. 4:1-11: Mark 6:1-6a
HC: John 6:60-69; Ephesians 5:21-33; Joshua 24:1-2a,14-25; Ps. 116 or Ps. 34:15-22
Monday: 1, 2, 3 * 4, 7; Job 4:1,5:1-11,17-21,26-27: Acts 9:19b-31: John 6:52-59

Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Sat, 25 Aug 2012
From: Nigel Mumford
Subject: Daily quote
Physical or emotional pain can distract you from the Lord or it can bring you a lot closer to Him…Your choice.

Albany Intercessor

Christ Church Schenectady Prayer Table Report (an amazing morning)

Christ Church Schenectady Prayer Table Report, Saturday, August 25, 2012, 9:05 – 10:40 a.m. Bob Baker and Sandra Diaz at Jerry Burrell Park, Torre Bissell and Darlene Chesnut on State St. and Carol MacNaughton and Mark Pasko on Albany St.

+–indicates received a wooden cross made by Dennis Adams of North Carolina

State St.

+Rita — “That I can get through this meeting this morning.” (There was some kind of community forum breakfast at Christ Church Schenectady this morning.)

+José — He asked prayer that he would be kept safe.

Bill (regular) — Protection from seizures and falling.

Jeewin (young man from last week) — He asked for continued prayer that he would get a job.

+Gerald — He asked prayer “for my sister Denise who is dying.”

+Charles — “For my health.”

Denny — He asked prayer “for my wife and for financial provision.” [He already had a Dennis Adams cross on.]

+Pedro — He asked prayer for Merical with cancer.

+Michael (young man from last week) — “A job.” We prayed for guidance in his search.

+Debra (regular) — We prayed for her granddaughter Mahogany who is now living at home and causing an uproar for her mother. We gave Debra a Bible.

+Ed — “Good health and strength.”

+Andrew (regular over the past several years) — It was a joy to see him completely sober and in his right mind after many years of alcoholism. He was on his way to work. We prayed for God’s blessing on him and protection.

Richard and Melissa (husband and wife from last week) — We prayed for continued blessing on their marriage and for her coordination (perhaps she has Cerebral Palsy.)

+Paul (man in for public office) — We prayed that he would be fearless in saying “yes” and “no” as the situation demanded.

+Julius (boy), +Jeremiah (boy) and Enola (aunt)

A young woman passed by smiling hold up her cross and said she just gotten prayed for by the Albany Street team.

+Marianne (mom), +Jaydon and +Mercades (children)

+Norman and +Andrew (boy)

++Paula (regular) — She gave thanks for her month old granddaughter Bella. We prayed for peace for Bella and her parents. Bella is Paula’s first grandchild. We also prayed for Paula’s husband John who stopped by a short time later.

+Mahendra (teenage boy) — We prayed that he would grow into the man God is calling him to be. [Darlene and I commented after he left how wonderful it was the way teenagers were willing to stop for prayer.]

+Madelyn (woman running for public office) — We prayed for guidance for her in her work at a nursing home.

John (regular, Paula’s husband) — It was a joy to see him again and pray for him (Paula and John had been away most of the summer visiting their daughter and new granddaughter).

Lisa — She came across the street to share the good news that she just got a job that we had prayed for.

Markly and Aniel (two young men going to the Macedonia 7th Day Adventist Church on Swan St.) — We prayed for the anointing of the Holy Spirit on them and their congregation and on Christ Church and for them to speak God’s word.

Eric (pastor of the Macedonia 7th Day Adventist Church on Swan St.) We prayed for his wife Heather and his son Gabriel.

Albany St.

+ Dorman and + Digah – health and starting over in a relationship

+ Sahadeo – prayers for his hearing – both his physical hearing (wore a hearing aid) and hearing the Lord

+ Margaret – Prayers for the pain she feels in her head and the confusion that comes upon her (after she had walked away, she came back to give a donation but we told her to give it to her church.)

++++++ Keith – prayer for his 5 children (also took crosses for them)

+ Brianna – she was wearing a cross, did not know what to ask for but knew she wanted prayer – so we prayed blessing and that she carry Jesus to others. (After we gave her a cross, she said she has 20 different crosses and likes to pray the rosary).

+ Charles – pulled up on his bike. We recognized him from praying for him on State street. He has diabetes. Asked for prayer for his health and a place to stay. We prayed for a true home.

Vernon – we blessed him as he was going to catch a bus and could not stop

++Gabriel – he asked prayer for health and prosperity. He also received prayer to live out his namesake. The second cross is for his daughter.

+Nilda – she is going to the hospital on Monday for a procedure on her stomach to determine what is wrong. We prayed peace of the Lord, no anxiety, God’s healing hand and His presence with her, the doctors and nurses.

Mary – in a wheelchair (had visited the table in the past) – continue to pray for her health, use of her legs

+Jolen – everything

OUT of crosses! (yes, we rejoice when we run out of crosses because it shows the volume of people seeking the Lord.)

Nalon – forgiveness

Ruzon – he wanted to give praise and thanksgiving for the survival of being shot about 3 weeks ago. The bullet came out of his leg on its own. The wounds are healing cleanly. So we prayed thanksgiving and continued clean healing. About 3 weeks ago Mark had spoken to an angry man who wanted to go shoot a man who owed his $70. Mark told that story to Ruzon. Ruzon was the man who owed $70! The man who shot him is now in jail. We gave thanks again that Ruzon was not more seriously injured and for both Ruzon’s sake and the shooter.

Jerry Burrell Park

Bob — He gave praise and felt blessed with the cans and bottles he has collected.
Dee — Bob’s friend, they got a room together. Becoming roommates

Julissa, Trent, Jenae, Fillel (baby) –Their mother (Lisa) came home from jail.

Renny — He is a Southern Gospel Elder at Union and Morris Sts.

Melissa — She want to become part of a church. Everything was stolen from her. Aaron — He will share Christ and gave a brochure to Bob and Sandra.

Luz — Her parents died 3 years ago, grieving.

Adrian — Asked prayer for her parent’s health.

Avril — “Success.”
Kristal

Clarissa — She asked prayer that her son would be OK, her kids would be OK, and that her mind would be OK.

Acts 9:10-19a

      Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.” Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. So when he had received food, he was strengthened. (Acts 9:10-19a)
      Jesus, as you did with Saul, please also do with the Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts-Schori and her Chancellor David Booth Beers. Bring them to conversion by a personal encounter with you.

      Holy Spirit, as you did with Ananias, so raise up men and women who at your bidding will be willing to go to the Presiding Bishop and the Chancellor and say, “Sister Katharine and Brother David, the Lord who has appeared to you, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”

      Father, thank you for the faithful witnesses you have raised up through the years to those who have persecuted the church and your people. Raise up such witnesses to the leaders and teachers of the Episcopal Church in our day. Father, in your mercy renew in our day the wonders of your Pentecost. Thank you.

      LORD, thank you for those faithful witnesses who go out into the market place week after week with the prayer table ministry to reach the lost and the least.

Saturday: 137:1-6(7-9), 144 * 104; Job 3:1-26: Acts 9:10-19a: John 6:41-51
Sunday: 146, 147: 111, 112, 113; Job 4:1-6,12-21: Rev. 4:1-11: Mark 6:1-6a
HC: John 6:60-69; Ephesians 5:21-33; Joshua 24:1-2a,14-25; Ps. 116 or Ps. 34:15-22

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Fri, 24 Aug 2012
From: Nigel Mumford
Subject: Daily quote
      Intention: The person or thing meant to benefit from prayer or religious offering. Come into healing prayer with deep “intention” so that you and others may be healed. Jesus said, “Ask.” Here follows four “bible bites”to back this up:
      Matthew 21:22 writes “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”
      John 16:24 writes “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive.
      James 4:3 writes “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”
      1 John 3:22 writes “and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him. Receive, and your joy will be complete.”
      Review your intention, come to Him with intention, what is your intention?
      ~ Fr. Nigel Mumford+

Albany Intercessor

John 6:27-29

Jesus answered them and said, “Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set his seal on him.” Then they said to him, “What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?” Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he sent.” (John 6:27-29)
      Jesus, it finally cones down to that thing which is so simple and so hard to do consistently: believing in you and trusting you with everything in our lives day in and day out.

      Holy Spirit, please help us daily believe in Jesus and trust him with our entire lives.

      Father, please help us daily do that work you have called us to: believing in Jesus you Son. Thank you.

Friday: 140, 142 * 141, 143:1-11(12); Job 2:1-13: Acts 9:1-9: John 6:27-40
Saturday: 137:1-6(7-9), 144 * 104; Job 3:1-26: Acts 9:10-19a: John 6:41-51

      Notes from the Front Line

Schenectady City Mission Prayer Table Report, Thursday August 23, 2012, 5:15 – 6:15 p.m.. Torre and Jean Bissell and Chuck Rinaldo from Christ Church Schenectady. This took place during the evening meal at the City Mission.

+–indicates received a wooden cross made by Dennis Adams of North Carolina

Reggie (he had visited the State St. prayer table on Saturday) — Prayer for him and his relationship with his children, especially his son Josh.

+Smiley — Prayer for continued blessing and strength of character. He took a cross to give to someone else.

+Nate (young man) — Next week he starts college in Long Island. We prayed for strength and wisdom.

Man (very hostile to Christianity)

Chuck and his little boy +Colby — We prayed for an anointing on Chuch as a father and as a man. We prayed for healing for Colby who had fallen and bumped his face.

+Elaine — She has had a tumor removed and is on chemo.

+Jephtha — He has very bad arthritis and can hardly move around.

+Lathen (man) — He asked prayer for spiritual well-being.

+Jacqueline — She asked prayer for more time with her daughter and that the job interview would go well.

+Alan — “Everything.”

Gary — He asked prayer for his church which is splitting.

Corey (man) — He asked prayer for him and his fiancé.

Albany Intercessor

Kind ear

2 Kings 19:20b (NIV)
“This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I have heard your prayer . . .”

I thank You for Your kind ear, dear Lord.

John 6:26-27 and Sunday School Lesson

Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set his seal on him.” (John 6:26-27)
      Holy Spirit, please help us daily get our priorities straight and labor for those things which are of enduring value.

      Father, thank you for setting your seal of the Holy Spirit on Jesus. Please set your seal on us so that we will labor for what endures.

      Jesus, please help us daily come to you because we recognize that there is no other name under heaven by which we can be saved. Thank you. (See Acts 4:12)

Study Guide: Summer Sunday School Lesson 11, August 26, 2012
Readings: John 6:60-69; Ephesians 4:1-7, 5:21-33; Joshua 24:1-2a,14-25; Ps.34:17-18
Next Week: Mark 7:1-23; Ephesians 6:10-20; Deuteronomy 4:1-9; Ps. 15:1-2
Memory Verse: But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68 )

      Gospel: John 6:60-69

A word received: I want you to recognize the importance of Peter’s statement. He is saying it just after many of my disciples have left me. I want you to be like Peter and stand in the truth he is proclaiming in verses 68 and 69.

      Epistle: Ephesians 4:1-7, 5:21-33

A word received: Read how I want you to trust one another in 4:1-7 and 5:21.

      Old Testament: Joshua 24:1-2a,14-25

(verse 23) A word received: Look through your life and cast out every “foreign god” so that you have serve me.

      Psalm: Ps.34:17-18

A word received: I have heard your cries to me and have delivered you out of trouble over and over again.

Thursday: 131, 132, [133] * 134, 135; Job 1:1-22: Acts 8:26-40: John 6:16-27
Friday: 140, 142 * 141, 143:1-11(12); Job 2:1-13: Acts 9:1-9: John 6:27-40

      Notes from the Front Line

***** Date: Wed, 22 Aug 2012
From: Nigel Mumford
Subject: Daily quote
      Jesus gave us a prescription for stress, abundant in modern day living. You will find it in John 14:27. Jesus said, “Peace. Peace I give to you, my peace I leave with you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Allow the peace of God to permeate your very being. Invite that Holy peace to reside within.
      Jesus gave us a Devine peace, not of this world, look for it, receive it, live it. Speak His words out loud now and again and know the peace that surpasses all understanding will rest and reside upon and within you. Whisper His words to your heart and into the hearts of those you love…Use His prescription at least once a day. Be at peace dear soul. ~ Fr. Nigel Mumford+

Albany Intercessor