Available For Prayer. One day, while walking in the sanctuary of the Carmel Mission Basilica, I had a sweet and beautiful encounter with a Priest who sat praying. As I walked past him, I asked him a question; after answering, he told me his name was Father James and that he was a visitor.
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20
He then stood up, started telling me the history of the mission, and asked me what I did for a living. When I told him that I was a Prayer Coordinator for my church and The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, he asked me to pray for him. Of course, I said yes!!
As we walked outside, I asked him how he became a priest and where he serves. He said he grew up in California and serves in Alaska. He also shared his hurt about how few people in Alaska have heard about the birth of Jesus, let alone about the Gospel Message. His ministry is mostly to the youth there.
At one point, we both got excited and began to talk about scripture, including the Trinity. It was honestly very cool to have the opportunity to share our hearts and knowledge of God’s Word.
As we talked for a while, I realized I should let him go so he could continue visiting the mission. He was quick to remind me that he wanted me to pray for him. Wow, what a privilege it was! He then prayed for me as a Prayer Coordinator.
My husband happened to be in the courtyard waiting for me when I went inside the church. When Father James and I came outside, he saw us and snapped a picture of the two of us praying together.
We were just two Christians standing in the courtyard of the Carmel Mission, sharing our faith. Later, I noticed a couple of pictures and one video I had taken that included Father James in the background. Interesting how God orchestrated it before we met.
Sometimes, God does unexpected things when we are available and willing to see Him working around us. Those experiences often stretch our faith and allow us to see that He is not just for us but for other believers, even those who attend other churches.
God loves the whole Body of Christ, not just the church we attend. Scripture proves this and reminds us that HE wants unity and fellowship between all Believers. That day with Father James proved something that I had always believed: that Catholic Christians and Christians from other churches can worship, pray, and encourage one another. It is His desire for us to be available for prayer.
Interesting fact: this was my second encounter like this. The first one was on a train trip with my sister last June. We sat with two Catholic priests in the dining car, prayed before our meal, and ate lunch together. Both instances were nine months apart and included me praying for three Priests. Man, oh man, we sure do serve an extraordinary and loving Savior.
I am curious: what fun stories do you have about believers from other churches? Please share your experience in the comments. 👇
Connection
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Additional Encouragement
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34 – Read Full Chapter
“I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong— 12 that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.” Romans 1:11-12 – Read Full Chapter @BibleGateway
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