185 Days of Prayer - Week 2: Remember Those Who Came Before Us - Sept. 28–Oct. 4
Weekly Focus: Salem's story was built through the faithfulness of ordinary people who answered God's call and remained faithful.
Day 8: For gratitude for the saints who shaped Salem – Scripture: Hebrews 12:1–2a - Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Day 9: For families who passed faith generation to generation – Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:5 - I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
Day 10: Thanks for those who planted, built, and served – Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:8-9 - 8 The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. 9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.
Day 11: Gratitude for teachers, mentors, spiritual guides – Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:6–7 - These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
Day 12: For those who have faithfully served before us – Scripture:1 Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Day 13: For those who have entered the Church Triumphant – Scripture: 1 Kings 8:57 - May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our ancestors; may he never leave us nor forsake us.
Day 14: Ask God to help us faithfully tell God’s story – Scripture: Deuteronomy 4:9 - 9 Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
Reflection: Who helped form your faith? What do you hope to carry forward and give to others?