The Power of (Other People’s) Prayers

Even during the times, I struggled to pray, I would never turn down prayers from others.  Some religious denominations will criticize Catholics for praying to the Virgin Mary or the saints and call it idolatry, but as Catholics we simply understand the power of other people’s prayers. 

As I held my nine-week-old daughter in the hospital while she took her last breath, I swear to you I could FEEL people’s prayers.  For in that tragic moment, I felt such an overwhelming sense comfort and peace, I knew it had to be coming from out of this world. 

I’ll admit, in recent years I have struggled to pray, not because I didn’t believe but because I didn’t understand.  I would cringe whenever someone asked me to pray, silently rating the priority of their prayers.  A child with cancer?  For that I could pray.  An 88-year-old having open-heart surgery?  I think we all know he’s on borrowed time.     

I’m not so much a fan of the “gimme” prayers.  For example, the “help me land this job” or “cure me from this ailment” style of petition.  Frankly I just don’t think it works that way.  So, I have conceded to pray for the more conceptual.  Such as more love, less evil in the world and guide people to do Your will. 

Are all prayers created equal?  I would argue not. 

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.  The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very powerful.”  James 5:16

The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very powerful.

James 5:16

Think about it, if you’re entering a war zone, you want a Jack Reacher at your side, am I right?  Similarly, if I’m desperate for God’s attention, I’m calling on the forces at will that most have His ear, aka the holiest people I know on this earth and the saints I most adore in heaven. 

In my mind the hierarchy of prayers goes something like this:

1. Children’s Prayers
2. Prayers for Others
3. Prayers for Ourselves

To think, what a beautiful world could it be if we all stopped thinking of our own wants and needs and solely focused on praying for each other?  If there is a constant war of good versus evil in the universe, could our prayers serve as the ammunition needed to finally defeat Satan? 

I challenge you now to go say a decade or even just one “Hail Mary” for someone in particular.  Although I’m sure you will not stop at one, for just like Pringles, “Once you pop (pray), you can’t stop.”

In fact, I believe in the power of praying for others so much, I’ll offer you this.  Comment “Done” after this post if you have subscribed to my email list, and I will personally pray an entire decade for YOU!  Afterall, free food and free prayers are two things you never want to turn down!