Like many of you, I have been following the Damar Hamlin story in the media after the horrific freak accident last week during Monday Night Football.  I couldn’t help but to notice the players from both teams were immediately kneeling in prayer after his collapse.  Fans from all teams were continually sending prayers on Damar’s behalf.  And, how wonderful that an ESPN analyst felt called to pray on air, proclaiming his belief in prayer!  Praise God!

So many praying for a miracle!

And, God answered!  After all, He is in the miracle business!  Damar is making continuous progress in his recovery.  Again, praise God!

But, as much as I am in awe of all this prayer, it makes me wonder…

I wonder if the same people who believe there is no place for prayer in schools or high school football games were watching all this happen.  Were they praying too?

I wonder if the same people who believe religious displays don’t belong on public property were watching all this happen.  Were they praying too?

I wonder if the same people who are offended by “under God” were watching all this happen?  Were they praying too?

I wonder why is it so many want to fight for their rights when it comes to what we want to believe, but when a miracle is needed, we seem to instinctively drop to our knees in prayer.  We want to be in control of our daily lives and decisions, but when things seem out of our control, we often go to God.

God is the way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, just like the song says. (Way Maker, by Sinach.)  And, that should comfort us.  Knowing that should provide peace; knowing that in the darkness, in the worry, in the sadness, in the desperation, He answers us when we call on Him. But that’s not all!

Yes, He moves our mountains, but he also shows us His goodness in the everyday moments.  He longs to be a part of our lives every day!  Not just when we are in need of a miracle.  He wants us to invite him to be a part of our joy; he wants us to show Him our gratitude for His blessings.  He wants us to ask Him to walk alongside us in good times and bad.  He wants us to sit in His presence and enjoy His peace.  Every day.

So, if you are in need of a miracle, go to God in prayer.

Or, if you are in need a of mountain to be moved, go to God in prayer.

If you need guidance or direction, go to God in prayer.

Or, if you need peace or comfort or strength, go to God in prayer.

But if you are grateful, you can also go to God in prayer.

Or, if you are experiencing success or joy, you can also go to God in prayer.

If you are content at the moment, you can also go to God in prayer.

Or, if you know He is your way maker and your promise keeper, you can also go to God in prayer.

He longs to be a part of our lives, as long as we invite Him.  On the football field and in the hospital room. In the classroom and in the workplace. In the public spaces and the private. In our homes and in our hearts. In the good times and bad.

He is faithful, and he promises to be with us.  Always.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)