Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice. Psalm 55:17, NKJV

Every evening, I heard the carillon from a nearby steeple playing familiar hymns:

Jesus, Thou Joy of loving hearts,
Thou Fount of life, Thou Light of men
From the best bliss that earth imparts,
We turn unfilled to Thee again.

I knew the words of these hymns but doubted that many others did.

I lived near the center of town for twelve of the twenty-six years that I taught at this particular school. I loved this unique, all-American city with all different kinds of people living together in a beautiful rural setting. However, I also saw the problems and sinful reality of life for many who lived there.

Each day, the bells would remind me that God desired to dwell among us by His Spirit and lead me to pray for the churches, families, and schools of this town. As in other places all across America, people needed to hear about Christ, re-order their lives under His direction, and be released from the power of Satan.

Our prayers break down the barriers of the Enemy, open doors into homes and hearts, and heal that which is broken. As educators, we have a unique view of the “real world” through our students’ lives. Today, I encourage you to ask Him for a God-given love for your town, and the burden to pray with His authority over all who live there. Ask God for a special reminder for this all-important task.

Thank you Lord for reminding us about how much we have been given by You. We honor You. Amen.

Copyright Shirley Wilson.

Shirley is a retired member and former board member of Christian Educators.