September 15, 2021

The mental health crisis is no secret. The number of people who struggle with anxiety and depression is staggering – especially younger people. The pandemic has just made more plain the fault lines that already exist in all of us. We need help.

Prayer is not a replacement for excellent therapy (and or drugs!), but it is a major player when it comes to the help we need in our deepest places. Paul says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

To be honest, sometimes we feel God’s guarding peace, and sometimes we don’t. We can be sure, however, that our prayers are heard and that God is right there.

“Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your apostles, ‘Peace I give to you; my own peace I leave with you:’ Regard not our sins but the faith of your Church, and give to us the peace and unity of that heavenly City, where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, now and for ever. Amen.”  (Collect at the Prayers – BCP p. 395)