Rhythmic Theology

A youth pastor trying to find a steady beat…

Finals Week Prayer

These are only words that a naive grown up elf could possibly utter.

This is the season when college students will be cramming, procrastinating, reading, writing final papers, and drinking copious amounts of coffee and energy drinks.

Yes. It’s finals week. And I want to give two reminders….

Churches!: Don’t forget about those in college in the coming weeks. It’s great when they come home for their holiday break and you see them at church on Christmas Eve. But don’t forget that they’re going through some rough weeks before they arrive home. It’s stressful, tiring, and sometimes it’s hard to see the end in sight. So keep them in your prayers this week. Say a prayer for them in your church services. If you personally know a college student from your church or a neighbor or a family friend or family member, give them a call to let them know you’re praying for them and that you can’t wait to see them when they get back. It’s a gift to know that there are people and things to look forward to at the end of finals week.

College Students!: These weeks can feel like forever. It feels like a marathon, but in a way, you’ve trained for this all semester. Stay strong. Study hard. Don’t forget to grab an extra large coffee this week. Here’s  prayer for you in the coming week(s)…

Loving God, in the midst of the finals marathon week,

may our students be faithful in their work.

May your spirit renew them to find perseverance in the late nights.

I pray for those who are unsure of what they are working toward,

struggling to find a major; seeking where their greatest joy

meets the worlds deep hunger.

Be present with them in their search.

I pray for those who have found their direction of study;

That they remember the joy, the drive, the passion

of your calling on their life, especially during a time

when that call can seem faded and unclear.

Amen.