It would be naïve to think that in any community everyone would always see eye to eye on everything and never argue, disagree or divide. Chestermere has always been a close knit community that helps each other in times of disaster and tragedy. Gathers together to celebrate triumphs and special moments. But over the last year, a feeling of division and contention has rocked our city with what feels like one hit after the other.
From politics, to flooding, unimaginable loss to economic disruptions…..residents have found themselves frustrated, confused and in some cases, angry, at the world we live in – and closer to home, our community. Many times over the past months, many have asked the question “I just wish I knew the answer” or “I wish it would just get better”. Well, the leaders and membership of Lake Ridge Community Church have started an initiative that although may not solve all our problems, it may at least bring some peace to our community.
Lake Ridge Community Church is doing a church-wide project throughout the month of March where the whole church, each day, is praying for individual people, groups, and leaders in Chestermere.
Pastor Preston Pouteaux explained, “Right now things are not going smoothly for our city and we believe that by praying, we change the way we see others, and invite God’s peace into the challenges we face together. The quote that helped inspire our month of prayer is from Mother Teresa, she was a very active person who changed the culture around her. Yet even she said her love and service began with prayer. She said, “If we pray, we will believe; if we believe, we will love; If we love, we will serve.” So the question to our people was simply, “what if we pray?” Will it change the way we love and serve our city? We hope so!”
Since starting the project, the church and its members have prayed for a variety of groups and individuals in our community. The Chestermere Lions Club, Rocky View Schools – specifically Bev LaPeare as she is our trustee, the Chestermere grocery stores and their owners, Camp Chestermere and its staff and leadership and the Chestermere Recreation Centre…and these are just the ones so far. The list is quite impressive as this group took into accounts all who have some influence or role in our community – and just seeing the list of people that make this city the amazing place that it is makes you stop, pause have a moment of gratitude.
These sweet prayers are simple but direct with each having very specific things mentioned. The leaders of Lake Ridge Community Church also want anyone who wishes to participate to do so and they’ve actually provided a little ‘how to’ when it comes to saying a prayer.
“Prayer is like a flower bulb. It may be small, but when rooted by God it has the power to change a barren field into a lush, fragrant garden. Here are four steps you can take to “plant a prayer” for your city:
1. Find a quiet moment, each day, to sit down and spend time with God.
2. Pray specifically for someone, or a group in our city.
3. Talk and listen. Ask God for help, and thank God. God hears all kinds of prayer, especially yours.
4. Act. With each person we are praying for, we’ve included their contact information. Maybe that person or group needs to know that they are being prayed for, that they are important and loved. Imagine how amazing it would be to know that dozens, or hundreds, of people were praying for you? It is powerful.”
Now, it’s also understood that not everyone believes in prayer and a higher power – but there is still something to be said for positive thoughts and energy. So, although you may not feel that praying is your thing, perhaps some positive energy or a kind word or deed is the way that you help lift the spirit in our community.
Every day, Lake Ridge Community Church is posting on their Facebook page whom they are praying for that day. If you want to follow the prayer list, check out: https://www.facebook.com/LakeRidgeCommunityChurch/?fref=ts
Pastor Pouteaux added, “It’s a small act, but that’s the point. Our metaphor throughout this season of prayer, and leading up to Easter, is a flower bulb. Small, but full of beauty and hope. Anyone who prays for our city is doing just that, planting a bulb of beauty and hope. Through prayer, belief, love, and service, spring will come for our city”.
