May

May 6- National Day of Prayer



"The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. [The NDP] Task Force is a privately funded organization whose purpose is to encourage participation on the National Day of Prayer. It exists to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, to create appropriate materials, and to mobilize the Christian community to intercede for America’s leaders and its families.



The National Day of Prayer Task Force’s mission is to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, mobilizing the Christian community to intercede for America and its leadership in the seven centers of power: Government, Military, Media, Business, Education, Church and Family."


From http://www.nationaldayofprayer.com/


Visit the NDP web site (above) to get some ideas for planning a NDP event for your church or prayer group.



May 23- Day of Prayer and Fasting for World Evangelization

"Every year on Pentecost Sunday, Southern Baptists have devoted a day to pray for a people group that has not heard the Good News of God's love and salvation in Jesus Christ. Why Pentecost? Because the power of the Holy Spirit to take the Gospel into the world enveloped the church on that day (Acts 2:1-13).

The goal of the Day of Prayer and Fasting has been to see the kingdom of God come to the people group being prayed for. The power of united prayer is immeasurable. In Matthew 18:19 Jesus says, "... If two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven" (NIV). Imagine how the united prayers of thousands capture God's attention!

Why fast? Fasting is an example of sacrificial fervency. It allows Christians to deny themselves in order to give themselves over to wholehearted prayer.

Like most Christians, you may not know thousands of people with whom you can join in prayer and fasting - but you do know your church and your family. Why not lead your church in praying? And encourage families - and lead your own family - to devote the day to prayer and fasting."

From http://www.imb.org/main/pray/page.asp?StoryID=5227&LanguageID=1709

The Day of Prayer and Fasting for World Evangelization is sponsored by the International Mission Board of the SBC.