My name is Heidi and I'm a facebook addict . . .
Much has been written about the role of facebook in our world today and this is not another analysis of that. Like most every other facebook user I have enjoyed reconnecting with people I'd lost touch with over the years, but when I signed up I didn't realize the power this social network held . .
As a follower of Jesus, and a person who believes wholeheartedly in the power of prayer, I have come to see how powerful facebook is as a tool for communicating prayer requests. Last June my facebook community was rocked by the sudden death of a young husband and father. As friends grieved, prayed, and shared memories online a friend mentioned, "Some days I feel like I need to quit my job so I have enough time to pray . . ."
Over the past few months I have thought about my friend's statement quite a bit. Through facebook I have found out about deaths, serious illnesses, pregnancies, hospitalizations, newborns, sick parents, etc. This week alone I have been asked to pray for several babies--both born and those who are still in utero. (In the past 5 days, 3 friends have announced their pregnancies, one baby was born at 35 weeks and is still in the NICU and another Mom was still in labor, the last I heard) This week I have also been asked to pray about a young father who died of cancer, leaving a wife and 10 year old daughter.
I am honored to pray for my brothers and sisters as they walk difficult paths. I am grateful that I have a community of 240 friends I can ask to pray when the time is necessary. At times it can seem overwhelming to see this intimately into so many friends' lives, but I love the fact I have the opportunity to join in prayer with friends all over the world . .
I have come to believe prayer is the most important, and powerful, use of facebook.
I agree!
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