Missouri Shared Prayers [link removed] Devotion
Empowering Peace through the Jesus Prayer
By Rev. Dr. Lydia Istomina, pastor of First UMC in Independence
In the reflective season of Lent and in a month that includes International Women's Day, we honor women's resilience and collective action, shaping history amid conflict. The recent shooting in Kansas City emphasized the urgent call to join in prayer against violence.

The legacy of women's activism, including Russian mothers and wives who stood against the war in Chechnya and those advocating for gun control in America today, demonstrates the undefeatable spirit of women's collective action. These movements highlight the powerful role of women as advocates for change in our societies. How can we join this collaborative action for harmony and peace, knowing our prayers make a difference?

The spiritual practice of the Jesus Prayer – "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner" – serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. This prayer, which my grandfather clung to in the face of unimaginable loss, embodies profound spiritual strength and sustains us through adversity.

Inhaling on "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God" and exhaling on "have mercy on me, a sinner," this prayer involves a rhythmic integration with breath. It can serve as a collective cry for peace and encourages an open-hearted dialogue with God; It provides space to share our deepest hopes and struggles and seek forgiveness and healing.

Recognizing women's roles in leadership, alongside the practice of the Jesus Prayer, reinforces our commitment to confess our shortsightedness. It's a powerful reminder of God-given spiritual potential hidden in a collective action for peace.
This Week's Churches and Pastors
Northwest District
March 1
Resurrection (Blue Springs)
mailto:[email protected] Senior Pastor Penny Ellwood and spouse Bill
March 2
Resurrection (Brookside)
mailto:[email protected] Senior Pastor Wendy Chrostek and spouse Scott
March 3
Resurrection (Downtown)
mailto:[email protected] Senior Pastor Anne Williams
March 4
Rock Port/Watson
mailto:[email protected] Senior Pastor William (Bill) Hargis and spouse Cher
March 5
Savannah
mailto:[email protected] Senior Pastor James (Jim) Barnett and spouse Julie
mailto:[email protected] Associate Pastor Terry Weaver
March 6
Skidmore/Burr Oak
mailto:[email protected] Supply Pastor Travis Dimmitt and spouse Elizabeth
mailto:[email protected] Supply Pastor Elizabeth Dimmitt and spouse Travis
March 7
Smithville
mailto:[email protected] Senior Pastor Rebecca Mulford
March 8
South Park/St. Paul
mailto:[email protected] Senior Pastor Sid Robbins and spouse Jayne


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Missouri Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
3601 Amron Court, Columbia, MO 65202 | Phone 573-441-1770 | www.moumethodist.org