Rev. Klockers: Please pray a simple prayer for others

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”

The above scripture is from Numbers 6:24-26. Moses instructs Aaron and his sons to speak these words to the people of Israel. It was a priestly benediction for an assembly. However, it might also have been given to individuals.

I view these words as somewhat of a paradox – both a confident pronouncement and prayer of hope.

In any event, it is selfless in scope, for the benefit of others. As such, it goes against the grain of how many of us may view prayer today – primarily for our own needs and desires.

For the time being, we are experiencing the curtailment of church, social gatherings, public and private schooling, sporting events, concerts, et cetera.

We do not meet as we have in the past. We are not physically greeting one other. All of this can leave us feeling a bit (or very) lonely.

A help to battle the sorrow of separation we may be experiencing is to constantly pray for others.

We may pray a prayer like that of Aaron. Use it as a guide. You may not be Priest by title, but within our context I don’t see a problem in doing so.

What should we pray?

For example, pray for someone by name, and then say: “The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord grant wisdom and discernment to keep you safe. The Lord open your eyes, giving light to simple blessings, that bring you peace.”

Admittedly, these words do not roll off the tongue like that of Aaron’s most poetic prayer, but you get the idea.

Perhaps you could write your own such prayer for the care and concern of others?

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for more than 30 years.