Prayer

The campers have left, the staff are gone, and I am back at camp ready to experience what God has planned for me in the few days I have left here.  As I have been cleaning and organizing a messy office, I have also been inspired to read through my notebook that include a variety of contents.  In the mess of all the randomness, I discovered sermon notes from Felch Mountain Bible Chapel.  as I read them, I was reminded of many quotes and ideas, but one section stood out above the rest (maybe because it was highlighted...but still ;)...).  It is simply four results of praying:

1. Unity- Col. 3:14
2. Share one another's burdens- Gal. 6:2
3. Like-minded- Phil. 2:2
4. Submit ourselves to the Lord.- James 4:7

Normally, these would be just words on a page, but they are not any more.  I can personally testify that these four things will result from prayer with others, whether this prayer is from a community unified hand-in-hand or a group praying with each other across the world.  Praying with others is truly indescrible and incredible.  In fact, praying with others has become one of my favorite pastimes.  I simply cannot describle it, but it truly is incredible...just ask if you want more details because I am currently at a loss for words.

The closest explanation I can come up with right now is that praying with others gives those involved a glimpse into what heaven might be like.  Granted, there is definitely more to it than that and that is not a statement meant to be taken as is word for word, but the peace, joy, and other emotions that result from praying together with others truly is indescrible, similar to the heaven "described" in Revelation. 

Philippians is filled with these ideas, but these two verses most concisely make my point
"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ,...then make my (Paul) joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose."  How is all this possible?  I would argue that prayer makes all these things possible.