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Good morning. Today is the Women’s World Day of Prayer.

It’s an initiative that has roots in the late 19th century. It spread rapidly, especially in the aftermath of the Second World War, and is now celebrated annually in over 170 countries. 

It brings together women of various races, cultures and Christian traditions, in prayer around a common theme; as well as encouraging closer fellowship, understanding and joint action, throughout the year.

In the UK alone, there will be something like 6,000 events today, organised by women – but open to everyone.

Linking prayer with practical engagement is at the heart of the Women’s World Day of Prayer, whose motto is ‘Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action’.

The Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard said that the function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.

At its best, informed prayer changes our understanding of the true situation of other people around the world, and pondering the experiences of others stirs up our own appreciation of the ways in which we, and our well-being, are all increasingly interconnected.

It is hardly surprising if such reflection changes us further, by moving us to practical action, prompting us to take effective steps in response to the demands of our times.

Christian faith highlights another element to the change that prayer can bring – it connect us first with God’s way of seeing the world, with God’s heart for all its people, with God’s desire to bring ‘good news’ to all, especially those who need it most.

And, more than this, prayer can also connect us with God’s encouragement and strength, to attempt more than we might first have imagined, as we seek to make a tangible positive difference to lives around us.

Dear Lord, today, and every day, may we be people of informed prayer, and prayerful action.  Amen.