FRIDAY, MARCH 2

Matthew 5:6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled.

Today is World Day of Prayer, a worldwide ecumenical movement with prayer services in 170 countries, beginning with the first sunrise in Asia to the last sunset around the globe. The theme is “Let Justice Prevail.” This year’s service was written by Christian women in Malaysia. Muslims make up 40% of the population, Buddhists 19%, Christians 9%, Confucianism and Taoism 13%, Hinduism 6%, Animism 3%.

Malaysia, about the size of New Mexico, is a multicultural, multi-religious nation divided into two land portions separated by the South China Sea. Malaysia is the largest destination in Asia for migrant workers and refugees fleeing from war-torn and struggling nations. Though some progress has been made, women’s voices for equal justice have largely been silenced; many are poor and exploited. Women from India are brought over to work in the rubber fields. Sex and labor trafficking has become a huge problem.

The challenges are to welcome people from all ethnic and religious groups and learn how to integrate living together and appreciate and accept other’s culture and traditions. As I was thinking about Malaysia, I couldn’t help comparing their situation to the vision of our church. Malaysia has many concerns dealing with great diversity, and FPC is actively seeking diversity and inclusion.

Welcoming and practicing hospitality are necessary in both situations. We can be thinking about actions to take as individuals and together with other church members to further support our vision statement of “cultivating mission, inclusion and community.” Malaysia’s ten year plan is to develop a higher quality of life for its people and for all communities to enjoy equitable success.

Righteous and Gracious God: Grant me the spirit of hospitality that I may welcome all who enter the doors of our church. Guide our church as we create a place in which each gender, race, and culture is honored, nurtured, and affirmed. Amen.

Lois Poston

FYI: The World Day of Prayer service our church participates in is at the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, 512 Pearsall, Pontiac MI. All are welcome. The service begins at 10:00am.