His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Ephesians 3:10, 11)
Dear Father,
These children will experience dysfunctional churches and will have their share of church wounds if they are involved in church for any period of time. Those experiences will have them wondering about how the church could possibly show your wisdom. But help these children to see that the Church reflects your wisdom in that it has continued to exist and to grow despite flawed members and flawed leadership. That, despite its flaws, the church continues to minister to people. That we were not created as new creation to walk alone and the church is the community you designed for us.
May these children devote themselves to serving the Church, the body of Christ, the Bride of Christ in all her faults, the church your Son bled and died for. And bless them for their efforts as they touch the lives of your struggling and hurting children. Give them a willingness to serve in leadership, if that is their calling, knowing full well that such service will lead to much heartache. Help them to realize that such heartache is also them experiencing a portion of your heartache. As they share in your pain, may they also share in your joy, both now and forevermore.
Amen
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