Here is part of our New Testament reading for today, from 1 Timothy: ‘First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way. This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth’.

This text is the source for the bidding prayers at Mass. The Greek word used for ‘intercessions’, ἐντεύξεις, ‘enteuxeis’, has the meaning of ‘hitting the mark’. Biblical intercession focuses on waiting upon the Lord to learn His will, what hits the mark, and aligning oneself with that as we hold the needs of others in our prayer.

As we wait upon the Lord in faith, holding our troubled world before Him, may our prayers reflect the trust that He will indeed ‘make all things well’. May God bless you this day.