May 2026 Monthly Letter

In this month’s letter, contributing writer Lloyd Briggie describes why participating in a National Day of Prayer is so relevant in these modern times.

The beloved Yogi Berra was asked one time, “Yogi, what time is it?” To which Yogi responded, “You mean now?”

His comical quip led me to another question – what time is a time to pray?

At a time of exhilarating joy? A time of pensive concern? At a time of planning and choosing? In a time of doleful boredom? At a time of doubt and trepidation? In times of hurt and anger? At a time of discouragement and depression? In a time of grief and loss? A time of hope and anticipation? When life makes you smile and laugh? When news evokes frowns and bewilderment? When our hearts are troubled and drifting toward worry and panic?

Do you mean all the time?

Yes, all the time.

We are exhorted to pray without ceasing. Scripture interestingly encourages us to “fear not” “don’t be afraid” 365 times. And when we are at a total loss as to what and how to pray, the Holy Spirit makes intercession for us; Jesus also intercedes for us.

A National Day of Prayer can be effective and unifying. But personally, we get to talk about everything most intimately with a loving, almighty, comforting, guiding, encouraging, “I got this” God who has the whole world in His hands.

It might be as simple as the man who prayed, “Dear Lord, Help me be the kind of person my dog thinks I am!” Or like the woman’s prayer, “Dear Lord, So far today, I am doing all right. I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty, selfish or self-indulgent. I have not whined, complained, cursed or eaten any chocolate. I have charged nothing on my credit card. But soon I will be getting out of bed and I think that I will really need your help then!”

May all Nations and Peoples participate in National Days of Prayer and 365 days of “I will never leave or forsake you,” “I am with you to the end of the age” walking and talking with God.

Lloyd Briggie is an Elder Emeritus of Grace Communion International. He and his wife Marcia reside in Lafayette, TN and do weekly jail ministry.