In this reading, we find the hallmarks of a grace-filled community of faith: prayer, confession, healing, and restoration. We often speak of and celebrate the power of prayer. We are willing to share when our prayers have been answered and we offer to pray for others in their times of need. It seems we are more hesitant to ask for prayers from others for ourselves. Why do you think this is? In the same way, we may make it a practice to confess our sin to God, but find it much more difficult to admit our failures to the people around us. Why do you think this is the case?
In what ways do you think praying for one another and confessing to one another leads to healing and restoration? How could you contribute to making our own community of faith one that is even more grace-filled than it already is?
Today, consider two things: what is a situation in which you would appreciate someone else’s prayers? And is there some sort of failure for which you should confess or apologize? Pray for the courage to ask for prayers and to make any confessions you may need to make. Reflect on the healing and restorative powers of these actions.
