The Holy Great-Martyr Artemius (360-363)
Colossians 1:1,2,7-11; Luke 8:1-3
Read Colossians 1:1,2,7-11
One of the most beautiful and edifying things that we can and are asked to do as Christians is to pray for others. Whether it is our family, friends, acquaintances, or strangers, we should both feel honoured and greatly responsible when being asked to pray for a brother or sister in Christ who asks this of us.
The purpose of our prayers for others is found in today’s readings. We pray for others so they may recognize the will of God in their lives, that their Christian faith may bear fruit, and that they may grow in the knowledge of God. Are these not the very things we desire in our own lives and the reason we ask others to pray for us?
Brothers and sisters, may we always be humbled when asked to pray for our brothers or sisters in Christ. May we never tire of offering our intercessory prayers for them. Having prayed for those in need, may we recognize our need for the prayers of others and never shy away from asking for their prayers!