Warm greetings from National Day of Prayer headquarters! It seems hard to believe that 2016 is already well underway. Yet, here we are, and the final plans for our May 5th NDP events are now being made. What a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the significance of this historic observance and the tremendous impact it can have on our great country. In the words of Pastor J. Sidlow Baxter, “Men may spurn our appeals, reject our message, oppose our arguments, despise our persons, but they are helpless against our prayers.” During the months ahead, both individually and corporately, we will no doubt experience times of great joy; but, we likely will also face unforeseen and difficult challenges. Whatever circumstance we encounter, however, we can have confidence that God’s faithful presence and inexorable strength are with us as we call on His name.
In light of this truth, it is particularly noteworthy that at our country’s inception, there was a clear mandate to protect citizens’ religious freedoms and to create an atmosphere where prayer in the public square was not only acceptable, but embraced. However, these precious freedoms are being lost, so it is imperative that we, the church of our Lord Jesus Christ, stand boldly together as one voice, united in fervent intercession for our nation and its leaders. This year’s NDP theme, “Wake Up America” allows us the opportunity to punctuate once again the importance of vigilance in maintaining these cherished rights that undergird American life: the freedom to gather, to worship, and to pray. To further highlight our theme, we’ve chosen Isaiah 58:1 as our Scripture for this year, which reads, “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet.”
A passionate call to prayer requires a passionate leader to champion its cause, so I am pleased to announce that Dr. Tony Evans has agreed to be the 2016 Honorary Chairman and he has already written a powerful prayer for our nation. This prayer will be simultaneously read throughout the United States at noon (ET) on the 65th annual National Day of Prayer. This recitation will create a huge wave of prayer, flowing from one coast to the other, illustrating the unity of God’s people and acknowledging His dominion over the circumstances facing us. To read and hear this prayer, click here>>
Here are a few more important items for you to take note of as you begin your plans for the year.
SPECIAL TASK FORCE INITIATIVES
40-Day Prayer Challenge
America’s National Prayer Committee and more than a dozen supporting ministries, including the National Day of Prayer Task Force, are calling for 40 days of prayer and fasting beginning Easter Sunday, March 27, concluding on the National Day of Prayer, May 5. In order to facilitate this national initiative, a special website has been created where you can join the movement, download prayer guides, and even adopt your street in prayer. To learn more, visit www.PrayAsOne.org
NDP Coordinator’s Conference and Prayer Summit
Our annual Coordinator’s Conference was held here in Colorado Springs, October 16-18, and it was a wonderful time of renewal and encouragement for all. It was a sell-out crowd and prayer leaders from around the world delivered a compelling message highlighting the importance of a vibrant and growing relationship with Christ. One person echoed the sentiments of many by saying it was a great chance to “meet new people from all over the U.S.” and to feel “the encompassing spirit of intercessory prayer.” After its tremendous success, our leadership team decided to join forces with Nick Hall and his team at Pulse ministries for Together 2016. This special gathering will take place July 14-17 in Washington D.C. and feature an incredible line-up of speakers including Francis Chan, Dr. Josh McDowell, Dr. Luis Palau, Dr. Ravi Zacharias, Kirk Franklin and music from Hillsong United. Registration is only $89 per person, so get registered today at www.NationalDayofPrayer.org/prayer_summit
We here at NDP headquarters are amazed and filled with deep gratitude to see God’s hand of blessing upon our work. And we have every reason to believe that another exciting year is on the horizon! However, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge that our past and future success has been in great part due to your partnership. We are honored that you have chosen to stand with us, and I covet your petitions on our behalf as we go forward with preparation for this year’s events. Also, may I ask you to prayerfully consider whether or not the Lord would have you give a financial gift at this time to undergird our Task Force’s efforts? At this crucial crossroads in our country’s history, Americans need to be in prayer, and every gift we receive goes a long way toward bolstering this message and our mission. Much is at stake regarding sanctity of life issues, traditional marriage and the ultimate moral course of our culture. Through the intercession, love and support of those who believe in our cause, we can make a difference! Thanks for allowing us to count on you.
In the coming months, I trust that the Lord will strengthen each of us and that millions of our fellow citizens will acknowledge His sovereign Hand upon the United States. May God’s abundant grace and peace be with you and your loved ones in the days ahead!
Sincerely,
Mrs. James C. Dobson (Shirley)
Chairman, National Day of Prayer Task Force