PRAISE GOD FOR WHO HE IS
The Apostle Paul said to Timothy, “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Tim 1:15-17). Give thanks that Jesus came into the world at the first Christmas to save sinners, that he has shown us patience, grace, and mercy. Pray that we would be a church community that shares this gospel to our city, and live for the glory of Jesus our King.
THE WORLD
Israel and Palestine. Continue to pray for an end to the hostilities and violence between Israel and Palestine. Pray for a lasting cease fire, for the continued return of hostages, for the protection of the innocents, especially women and children, and for humanitarian aid to reach those who most need it. Pray for physical and emotional healing in this conflict, that long term solutions would be found to end the cycle of animosity, mistrust, and hatred. Pray for the small and struggling Christian community, that they’d persevere in faith, and through their conduct and words, give witness the lasting hope found in Jesus.
HONG KONG
Poor and marginalised. Pray for the marginalised, the exploited, the refugee, and the poor in Hong Kong. Pray that they would be given a voice; that their needs would be heard, understood, and responded to appropriately. Pray that Christians would be people who actively seek to care for the needs of the marginalised; that we rescue the poor who cry for help and the fatherless who have none to assist them, and that we put on righteousness as clothing.
Schools. Give thanks for our schools, for the hard work and care of teachers and staff. Pray that all schools can be places of safety, refuge, learning, growth, and support. Pray for teachers and support staff, that in their teaching and example, they can be encouraging and wise influences on the student. Pray for students who feel the burden of expectation and performance, that they’d find support and peace amidst their anxiety. Pray for Christian schools in HK, that the gospel would be proclaimed clearly and faithfully through what is taught and the example of staff and students, and that seeds of faith would be planted in the hearts of student.
ST ANDREW'S
During this Christmas season, pray that we may declare clearly the good news of Jesus, the Light who has entered into our darkness. Pray that St Andrew’s Christmas services would attract many who are exploring faith and communicate Jesus faithfully. Pray that newcomers would feel welcomed and connected in our community. Pray that we would be eager to invite people to church and to give active witness to our faith in Jesus to our family, friends, and colleagues.
Kidzone and Youth ministries. Pray for our Kidzone and Youth ministries. Give thanks for the opportunities that our children and youth have to learn about Jesus. Pray for the leaders and volunteers, that in their teaching and example will point our children and youth to Jesus. Pray that in these ministries, the gospel is proclaimed and faith is grown.