Adventist Midwest Health (AMH) hospitals recognized and celebrated America's 56th annual National Day of Prayer on May 3.
"National prayer has been a part of our history since the Pilgrims landed 400 years ago," said David Crane, president and CEO, Adventist Midwest Health, as part of his devotional. "Prayer comes to prominence during crisis; for instance, at Valley Forge, during the Civil War, on D-Day, or September 11th, and today the need for prayer is as great as ever. Our nation again faces international challenges, violence, moral confusion, and social strife. Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt, and Reagan never underestimated the power of prayer. Neither should we."
Adventist GlenOaks Hospital Mission and Ministries department was a community sponsor of a special breakfast at a local golf club. Community leaders came together to pray for the nation and its future, and Larry Hartwig, the mayor of Addison, Illinois, was the guest speaker.
Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital hosted four complimentary meals throughout the day, and Rich Hynes of St. John of the Cross Church in Western Springs spoke and prayed at each.
Adventist Hinsdale Hospital served three complimentary lunches, and at each, Ron Schultz, senior pastor of Hinsdale's Seventh-day Adventist Church, offered prayer and a brief talk.
"Everything we do in Christian healthcare at Adventist Midwest Health ultimately serves our mission, which is to extend the healing ministry of Christ into the 21st century," said John Rapp, regional vice president, Ministries and Missions. "Ultimately, our hospitals are not healthcare institutions which are religious, but religious institutions that do healthcare."
Charles R. Swindoll, preacher, author, seminary president, and honorary chair of the 2007 National Day of Prayer, composed the following prayer that was shared with all AMH hospitals:
2007 Prayer for our Nation
Almighty God, we pause to reflect on Your character
as we seek wisdom for such a time as this.
In these unsafe days, You remain all-powerful and able to protect;
In these uncertain times, You remain all-knowing, leading us aright;
In the unprecedented events we're facing, You remain absolutely sovereign.
Our times are in Your hands.
Therefore, our dependence on You is total, not partial.
Our need for Your forgiveness is constant.
Our gratitude for Your grace is profound.
Our love for You is deep.
We ask that You guard and guide our President
and all who serve the people of these United States.
May uncompromising integrity mark their lives.
We also ask that You unite us as truly "one nation, under God."
May genuine humility return to our ranks.
And may that blend of integrity and humility heal our land.
Julie Busch is a public relations specialist at Adventist Midwest Health.
