And as we were throwing around ideas nothing seemed to stick. Then all of a sudden, someone said – ‘do you remember the first time you felt / knew God was with you?’ As soon as those words were uttered, the atmosphere shifted – it felt like such a Holy and special moment as we all paused and went back in time. One shared how they encountered God’s presence at a youth prayer meeting in such a way that it marked them for life. Although they had grown up in a Christian home, this was the first time they truly knew God for themselves- not simply an ‘inherited’ faith. One shared their experience of sensing the peace & presence of God as a young child whilst on a school trip to the local church -despite not growing up in a Christian home. Another still shared how they knew God was with them as divine protector, when they were in a dangerous situation… And as we shared, and were transported back to those individual pivotal moments, something shifted. We knew there was something in it. What would it look like for God’s life-transforming love & presence to encounter His children - especially those who have yet to know Him? And in a way that marks them for life?
Fast forward to today, we had no idea how particularly timely this theme would be with all that is going on in the world. From wars to rumours of wars, with so much fear, confusion and panic - now more than ever do we need to know this beautiful, reassuring eternal truth. Immanuel. GOD. IS. WITH. US. He always has been and always will be.
As we prepare for the 11 days of prayer, we will be sharing a series of video testimonies called ‘God with Us’. Testimonies from people, from all walks of life, sharing a moment in time when they knew God was with them. From the joys and sorrows to everything in between – we hope their stories will move, inspire, strengthen and encourage you and those you may know who might be experiencing similar circumstances. Perhaps if you feel led, you might even wish to share these with the 5 people you will be praying for or anyone else you think might be blessed by them?
This year, more than ever, we are praying for God’s presence to be known in the lives of our 5 people who have yet to know Him. That whatever circumstance they find themselves in, they too will soon know that God is with them and has always been present.
Will you join in?
Kemi Bamgbose, Thy Kingdom Come Project Lead