Someone Prayed

This last week has been long on many fronts - I was involved with the planning of many activities, finished up some assignments, tried to maintain a personal life and have been dealing with a lot of deep-rooted fear that has come to the surface. Earlier this evening I sent out my prayer update to those who have committed to regularly pray for me as I serve this year on GLC, spent some time with Jesus, and was about to go to bed still somewhat befuddled and stressed.
I lay down and proceeded to have a conversation with Jesus (I find myself having more and more... sometimes repeating the same topics) about the past week and some of the big current stressors - my frustrations and fears. As I talked frankly with God, he gave me perspective and love. It surprised me. It had been something I have been seeking the past few days, yet had not been able to grasp hold of. As the perspective kicked in and God's peace descended this thought hit me: someone prayed. I have been coming to God on my own about these issues, yet with the prayer of others added God came and met me.
I quickly forget that I am part of a body; that I am not meant to do this on my own. America promotes that lone-ranger mentality - pull yourself up and manage. Yet being part of the Body of Christ forbids that thought. Others can join in my suffering and I can join in theirs (1 Cor. 12:26); we can walk with one another through prayer. So thank you to all those who have prayed and are praying for me... and if you ever want me to join you in prayer, I'd be privileged.