Prayer

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Prayer of the Day

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Dear blog followers, please pray 🙏 for me !

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you” — Psalm 50:15

Heavenly Father, Almighty God, Creator of heaven and earth, I come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, Your Son, the Healer and Redeemer. Lord, I lift up this person to You right now as they are preparing to go into the emergency room with severe lower back pain. You see their body, You see their suffering, and You see every detail that is hidden from human eyes.

Lord Jesus, You are the Great Physician. You walked among the sick, You touched the broken, You healed the lame, and You brought comfort to those in pain. I ask that You extend Your healing hand right now over their body. Touch their lower back, every muscle, every nerve, every disc, every joint, and bring relief where there is pain. Let inflammation be reduced, let tension release, and let comfort begin to replace distress.

Father, I ask for wisdom upon the doctors, nurses, and medical staff who will care for them. Give them clarity of mind, sharp discernment, and compassion in their actions. Guide them quickly to the right tests, the right diagnosis, and the right treatment. If there is anything serious or hidden causing this pain, reveal it early and clearly so it can be treated properly. If it is something that can heal with time and rest, let that healing be steady and complete.

Lord, I ask for peace to cover their mind right now. Remove fear, anxiety, and frustration. Replace it with Your calm presence. Let them not be overwhelmed by waiting or uncertainty. Let them feel Your nearness even in the emergency room, even in the pain, even in the discomfort.

Jesus, You said that You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Be present now in that hospital room. Let them sense that they are not alone. Strengthen their body to endure the process of waiting, evaluation, and treatment. Give them patience when things move slowly and relief when care is given.

Father, I also ask for protection over their entire body. Protect their spine, their kidneys, their nerves, and every system that supports them. Let nothing dangerous grow or worsen. Let healing begin even before treatment is fully administered. Let their body respond well to whatever medication or care is given.

Lord, I thank You that You are merciful and good. I thank You that You hear prayer. I thank You that You care about even this moment of pain and uncertainty. Let this situation not lead to fear, but to restoration. Let it not lead to harm, but to healing. Let it not lead to confusion, but to peace and clarity.

In the mighty and powerful name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.

I'm heading to the ER ! 
Sunday 5.17.25
8:14pm pst 

JK's Prayer Reflections

🙏 - Today is National Day of Prayer, 5.7.26 🙏✝️ let us all spend eXtra time talking to God 🙏🙏🙏🙏🇺🇸🌎


I love praying ❤️✝️🙏

Here are 100 prayer prompts 

1. President Donald Trump: For wisdom in executive decisions and leadership.
2. The Vice President: For strength and discernment in their supporting role.
3. The Cabinet: For the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Treasury as they navigate global shifts.
4. The Supreme Court: For justice, integrity, and adherence to the Constitution.
5. The U.S. Senate: Especially as they debate the 2026 budget.
6. The House of Representatives: For unity in serving the American people.
7. 2026 Midterm Candidates: For integrity and peace during the upcoming election cycle.
8. State Governors: For those managing local economies and state-specific challenges.
9. Local Mayors and City Councils: For the safety and flourishing of our cities.
10. The Department of Justice: For fairness and the rule of law.
11. U.S. Intelligence Agencies: For the protection of our borders and digital infrastructure.
12. The Federal Reserve: For wisdom in managing inflation and interest rates.
13. FEMA and Emergency Responders: For those dealing with spring storm seasons.
14. State Legislatures: For the many states currently debating new mid-decade redistricting maps.
15. Election Officials: For the security and transparency of the 2026 voting process.
16. Border Patrol and ICE: For those on the front lines of migration issues.
17. The National Guard: For those deployed domestically for safety and disaster relief.
18. The Department of Education: For the safety and excellence of our schools.
19. Veterans Affairs: For the health and support of those who have served.
20. Diplomats and Ambassadors: For those representing American interests abroad.

## II. Global Conflicts & Peace
21. Iran-U.S. Negotiations: For a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict and military buildup.
22. Ukraine: For an end to the war and comfort for the millions displaced.
23. Israel and Gaza: For lasting peace and the protection of innocent civilians.
24. Mali: For those facing the recent surge in insurgent attacks and civil unrest.
25. Myanmar: For the civilians caught in the ongoing civil war.
26. Sudan: For an end to the civil war as it enters its fourth year.
27. Venezuela: For a diplomatic solution to the current tensions with the U.S.
28. Taiwan: For stability and peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
29. Haiti: For the restoration of order and safety from gang violence.
30. The Sahel Region: For those facing terrorism and political instability.
31. Yemen: For the continued efforts to maintain ceasefires and provide aid.
32. Syria: For the 16 million people still requiring humanitarian assistance.
33. The Democratic Republic of Congo: For peace in the eastern provinces.
34. Ethiopia: For continued healing and reconstruction following internal conflicts.
35. South Sudan: For those facing both conflict and extreme flooding.
36. North and South Korea: For the maintenance of peace on the peninsula.
37. Global Peacemakers: For the UN and various Boards of Peace meeting in Davos and elsewhere.
38. Religious Minorities: For those facing persecution in various nations.
39. Military Families: For the families of those deployed in the Middle East and Caribbean.
40. Cybersecurity Teams: For those defending against global state-sponsored digital attacks.

## III. Humanitarian & Social Issues
41. Famine in Sudan: For the millions currently facing starvation.
42. The Global Refugee Crisis: For the 117 million people forcibly displaced worldwide.
43. Human Trafficking Victims: For the rescue and restoration of the vulnerable.
44. The International Migration Review Forum: For the leaders meeting this week in New York.
45. Global Poverty: For the nearly 50% of people in Watchlist countries living in extreme poverty.
46. Health Care Workers: For those serving in conflict zones like Gaza and Sudan.
47. Clean Water Access: For communities in sub-Saharan Africa and rural Asia.
48. Educational Access: For children in war-torn areas whose schools have been closed or attacked.
49. Orphans and Foster Children: For loving homes and stable futures.
50. The Elderly: For those facing isolation or lack of care in our own communities.
51. Mental Health: For those struggling with anxiety, depression, and the New World Disorder.
52. Addiction Recovery: For those fighting the opioid and fentanyl crises.
53. Homeless Populations: For the hidden homeless in our suburbs and the visible in our cities.
54. Prisoners and Reform: For those seeking a second chance and for a just legal system.
55. Economic Stability: For families struggling with rising gas and grocery prices.
56. Farmers and Agriculture: For a bountiful harvest and fair markets.
57. Small Business Owners: For those providing jobs and services in our local towns.
58. Victims of Natural Disasters: For those recovering from recent floods in Brazil and East Africa.
59. Religious Freedom: That all may be free to worship according to their conscience.
60. Unity in the Church: That believers would lead the way in love and service.

## IV. People in Our Communities
61. First Responders: For our local police, fire, and EMT departments.
62. Teachers and Professors: For wisdom as they finish the spring semester.
63. Students: For those preparing for graduations and final exams.
64. Parents: For patience and wisdom in raising the next generation.
65. Marriages: For the strengthening of families and commitments.
66. Pastors and Ministry Leaders: For spiritual refreshment and clarity of vision.
67. Doctors and Nurses: For our local hospitals and clinics.
68. The Unemployed: For those searching for meaningful work.
69. Widows and Widowers: For comfort and a supportive community.
70. Youth Leaders: For those mentoring teenagers in a digital age.
71. Scientists and Researchers: For breakthroughs in medicine and technology.
72. Journalists and Media: For a commitment to truth and stories that build unity.
73. Artists and Creators: For those bringing beauty and inspiration to the world.
74. Athletes and Coaches: For integrity and safety in sports.
75. The Sick and Ailing: For healing and peace for those in our local congregations.
76. New Neighbors: For those moving into our communities to feel welcomed.
77. Volunteers: For those giving their time to food banks and shelters.
78. Social Workers: For those navigating the complexities of family services.
79. Truck Drivers and Logistics: For those keeping our supply chains moving.
80. Utility Workers: For those maintaining our power, water, and internet.

## V. Specific Requests for the Future
81. The 2028 Olympics: For the planning and preparation for the upcoming LA games.
82. AI Development: That technology would be used for the benefit of humanity.
83. Space Exploration: For the safety of astronauts on current missions.
84. Climate Stewardship: For wisdom in caring for the environment and resources.
85. Generational Healing: For the mending of divides between young and old.
86. Political Civility: For a return to respectful discourse in our nation.
87. The Gospel: For its continued spread and impact around the world.
88. Bible Translators: For those working to bring the Word to every language.
89. Missions Organizations: For protection for those serving in closed countries.
90. Christian Education: For the growth of schools and universities grounded in faith.
91. Protection of Life: For the most vulnerable from conception to natural death.
92. Racial Reconciliation: For continued progress in understanding and unity.
93. Economic Innovation: For new ideas to solve old problems of scarcity.
94. Integrity in Tech: For the leaders of social media platforms.
95. The Persecuted Church: For the strength and courage of believers in underground churches.
96. Global Literacy: That everyone would have the opportunity to read and learn.
97. Cultural Influence: That the themes of the National Day of Prayer would last all year.
98. Personal Growth: For a renewed heart of service in every individual.
99. Our Childrens Future: For a world of peace and opportunity for the next generation.
100. Thanksgiving: For the freedoms we enjoy and the hope we share.




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"Prayer: Old Approach, New Wonders " by Larry Dossey MD

Re intercessory prayer 🙏

The debate over praying to the saints (intercession) centers on how one interprets the relationship between the living, the deceased, and God. Below is a synthesized look at the primary arguments used by both sides.
Arguments For the Intercession of Saints
Proponents (primarily Catholics and Orthodox Christians) view the Church as a single, undivided family that spans both earth and heaven.
The "One Body" Principle: Based on 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 8:38, believers argue that death cannot separate a Christian from the "Body of Christ." If we are all connected, those in heaven are still our brothers and sisters who care for us.
The "Great Cloud of Witnesses": Hebrews 12:1 describes those who have passed as a "cloud of witnesses" surrounding us. This is interpreted as a sign that they are aware of our lives and cheering us on from the "stands" of heaven.
Biblical Imagery of Prayers: In Revelation 5:8 and 8:3-4, elders and angels are seen holding "golden bowls" containing the prayers of the believers on earth. This suggests that those in heaven play an active role in presenting our petitions to God.
The Power of Righteous Prayer: James 5:16 says the prayer of a righteous person is "powerful and effective." Proponents argue that those in heaven are the most righteous humans possible, making their prayers exceptionally effective.
Jesus’ Words on the Living: In Matthew 22:32, Jesus says God is "not the God of the dead, but of the living." This supports the idea that saints are fully conscious and active, not "asleep" or unreachable.
Arguments Against the Intercession of Saints
Opponents (primarily Protestant denominations) emphasize the sufficiency of Christ and the strict boundaries set in Scripture regarding prayer.
The Sole Mediatorship of Christ: The most cited verse is 1 Timothy 2:5: "For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus." Critics argue that asking saints for help creates unnecessary "middlemen" when we have direct access to God.
The Limit of Human Nature 
: Critics argue that for a saint to hear millions of simultaneous, silent prayers in different languages, they would need to be omniscient (all-knowing) and omnipresent (everywhere at once). They believe these attributes belong to God alone.
The Silence of the New Testament: Opponents point out that there is no command in the Bible to pray to the deceased, nor do the Apostles ever model this behavior in their letters. They follow the principle of Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone).
Prohibition of Necromancy: Some argue that any attempt to communicate with those who have died violates Deuteronomy 18:10-11, which forbids consulting the dead. They believe the boundary between the living and the dead should not be crossed.
The Sufficiency of the Holy Spirit: Romans 8:26 says the Holy Spirit intercedes for us when we don't know how to pray. Critics argue that with the Spirit and Jesus already advocating for us, seeking saints is a distraction from the Trinity.
Summary Comparison
| Feature | Pro-Intercession Perspective | Anti-Intercession Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Status of Saints | Alive and active in Christ. | Dead or "asleep" until the Resurrection. |
| Nature of Prayer | Like asking a friend to pray for you. | An act of worship or communication reserved for God. |
| How they hear | Through God’s power/the Holy Spirit. | Impossible; humans are not omniscient. |
| Biblical Focus | Revelation 5:8 (Prayers in bowls) | 1 Timothy 2:5 (One Mediator) |

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Whether your relatives in heaven can hear you depends on which theological framework you follow. Here is the breakdown of the two primary views:

The Yes Perspective (Communion of Saints)
This view, held by Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and some Anglicans, suggests that your relatives are active and aware.

The Mystical Connection: Believers argue that the Body of Christ is not broken by death. If we are all one in Jesus, those in heaven remain connected to those on earth.
The Cloud of Witnesses: Based on Hebrews 12:1, it is believed that the deceased act as a cloud of witnesses who observe and support the living.
How they hear: It is not believed that humans become all-knowing when they die. Instead, through their perfect union with God, he allows them to be aware of your prayers and needs so they can pray for you in return.

The No Perspective (Sole Mediatorship)
This view, held by most Protestant denominations, suggests that communication with the deceased is neither possible nor biblically supported.

Christ as the Only Bridge: Based on 1 Timothy 2:5, which states there is one mediator between God and mankind, critics argue that we should go directly to Jesus. They believe involving relatives creates middlemen that aren't needed.
Soul Sleep: Some interpret the Bible to mean the dead are asleep or at rest (as mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 4:13) until the final resurrection, meaning they are not conscious of earthly events.
Human Limitations: This view argues that hearing prayers would require a relative to be everywhere at once (omnipresent), which is a trait belonging only to God.

Summary
If intercessory prayer includes the deceased, it is seen as a family conversation where those in heaven pray with you to God. If it is rejected, it is because prayer is seen as an act of worship meant only for God, with the deceased having no role in earthly affairs.

📖🇺🇸✝️🙏America Reads The Bible | Join the Movement Now, April 18-25, 2026, Washington DC 🗽




https://www.americareadsthebible.com 


"April 18-25, 2026, over 475 leaders from all spheres of influence will gather in Washington, D.C. to read the entire Bible aloud ahead of our nation's 250th anniversary."


I hope to be in DC for the
 250th anniversary of America 🇺🇸🗽✝️,
 like I was last summer for the 250th anniversary of the army,
 which was also a big shindig 
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Praise God! game- changer👍" Strait of Hormuz Is ‘Completely Open’ After Lebanon Deal, Iran & U.S. Say " NY Times




https://www.nytimes.com/live/2026/04/17/world/iran-us-war-trump?campaign_id=60&emc=edit_na_20260417&instance_id=174229&nl=breaking-news&regi_id=307780662&segment_id=218379&user_id=bfbc9e4f8b5d9f3c19c185c1082bf3a2 

I've been praying 🙏🙏🙏
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constantly for Iran 🇮🇷on a daily basis for a resolution -hopefully this will be a permanent thing and everlasting and hopefully Iran can agree to become a legitimate democracy. 


"Shortly after Iran’s announcement, President Trump responded in social media post: “IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE. THANK YOU!”

Brent crude, the international oil benchmark, fell more than 10 percent, to below $90 a barrel, its lowest level in more than a month, though it remain..."

🙏✝️"Every 8 minutes, a child in India is trafficked -" News

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/every-8-minutes-a-child-in-india-is-trafficked/

"
Mission India regularly encounters adults who were trafficked as children and teens. Broken and abused, they are in desperate need of life skills and Christ’s love .."

🙏"Does Prayer Really Do Anything? -" emphatic Yes! ✝️

We are at a catastrophic point 😟 "America’s Birth Rate Collapsing as the Left Destroys the Family | "

>


https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2026/04/one-third-my-generation-aborted-americas-birth-rate/ 


"The national birth rate has now fallen to roughly 1.56 births per woman, far below the 2.1 births per woman generally considered necessary for population replacement. No serious country can ignore a gap that large without consequences. .."

Prayers for 🙏 permanent peace "Putin Announces Orthodox Easter Cease-Fire, but Ukraine Is Skeptical - The New York Times

: Pray 🙏 for Iran to Come To Their Senses & Surrender "Prayer to remove the veil of evil darkness over Iran "



https://www.wnd.com/2026/04/needed-now-prayer-remove-veil-evil-darkness-iran/ 

"
Iran is under both political oppression and spiritual darkness. The war against the Islamic Republic is not only a geopolitical conflict, but also a spiritual battle between good and evil. With the false god they worship, their "messianic" goal to bring the "12th Imam," and the witchcraft that the ayatollahs and other regime leaders employ to subjugate and sacrifice Iranians, there is no more clear battle of good and evil. After all these decades, Iranians know the truth and have increasingly turned away from Islam..."

World Prayer

World Prayer

https://backtoprayerhour.blogspot.com/2026/03/var-map-l.html

🌍 Global Alliances Map (Simplified)

🟢 Allies (USA)

Canada
United Kingdom
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Poland
Japan
South Korea
Australia
New Zealand
Israel
Philippines
Mexico
India (strategic partner)
Ukraine

🟡 Neutral / Non-Aligned

Switzerland
Austria
Ireland
Brazil
South Africa
Indonesia
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates

🔴 Adversaries / Tension

China
Russia
Iran
North Korea
Syria

 

🇺🇸 United States Allies

NATO Allies (formal military alliance)

Canada
United Kingdom
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Poland
+ all other NATO members (30 total)

Major Non-NATO Allies (security partnerships)

Japan
South Korea
Australia
New Zealand
Israel
Philippines

Other Close Partners (varies by issue)

Mexico
India
Ukraine

⚖️ Neutral / Non-Aligned Countries

Switzerland
Austria
Ireland
Brazil
South Africa
Indonesia
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates

⚠️ Adversaries / High-Tension Relationships

China
Russia
Iran
North Korea
Syria

🙏✝️"Globalist State-Sanctioned Suicide: Spain to Euthanize 25-yo Gang-Rape Victim Abandoned in Migrant-Filled Juvenile Center |

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2026/03/globalist-state-sanctioned-suicide-spain-euthanize-25-year/ 

"
Vox party president Santiago Abascal expressed profound dismay, stating, "I'm deeply affected by this news. The State takes a daughter away from her parents. The MENAs rape her. And the solution the State gives her is to drive her to suicide."

🙏"Strait of Hormuz tensions rise; ministry urges prayer for U.S. troops"

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/strait-of-hormuz-tensions-rise-ministry-urges-prayer-for-u-s-troops/ 

"
The United States says it has destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels as tensions continue to rise in the Persian Gulf. The strikes come as Iran attempts to disrupt oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane where roughly a fifth of the world's oil passes each day. Three commercial ships have been attacked there so far..."

Rest-in-Peace Mighty Kindness Warrior ❤️🙏✝️ 🕊️#JamesKok #JimKok, (1935-2026)

In Loving Memory: Rev. James (Jim) R. Kok 1935-2026

Remembering Jim Kok (1935-2026)

for anybody unsure, this is about the James R. Kok who grew up in Hills (MN), Bellflower (CA) & Holland (MI) and became a Christian Reformed Church (CRC) pastor, working most of his career at Pine Rest Christian Hospital in west Michigan, & the rest of his career mostly at the Crystal Cathedral in Southern California. (this is noted because there are/were more than one Rev. James R. Kok affiliated with the CRC over the last several decades).   (His wife's name is Linda). 

 (I am not in charge of posting the official obituary so I am posting a secondary obituary notice here on my own website blogs to provide further context & information). There has been some obituary information posted online already at the following links:

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/grandrapids/name/james-kok-obituary?id=60896647

https://www.communityfuneralservice.com/obituaries/james-kok

https://obits.mlive.com/us/obituaries/grandrapids/name/james-kok-obituary?id=60896647

On March 21, 2026, all are welcome at the burial ceremony at Artesia Cemetery in Artesia (CA) ( 11142 Artesia Blvd, Cerritos, CA 90703 beginning around 9:00 am (pst). It is a small cemetery and we do not know how many people will attend. If more than expected do attend, we hope the cemetery staff will help direct you to "overflow parking" outside the cemetery (but apparently parking in the high school parking lot across the street is discouraged)  

Later in the day, all are also welcome at a  formal memorial service at the Shepherd's Grove church (4445 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92604) later in the day beginning at 1:30pm (pst), after which there will be gathering in the community hall at the same location for refreshments & an informal time for people to reflect, socialize, & remember Jim, possibly with an open mic to share stories, as well as a photo slideshow, & memorial table etc) 

here's my version of Jim Kok's life & legacy: 

Blessed are those who mourn,

 for they shall be comforted." 

— Matthew 5:4

Remembering James R. "Jim" Kok 

(1935–2026)

James R. Kok, affectionately known as Jim, passed peacefully on February 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, & a lifelong dedication to Christian kindness. In a striking alignment with his mission, his passing occurred on February 17, 2026, which is also known as Random Acts of Kindness Day, a fitting reflection of the life he spent serving others with compassion, care, love & kindness.

Born on March 29, 1935, in Hills, Minnesota, Jim was the second of five children: Sherwood, Jim, Faith, Kay, & Gary. As an infant, he moved with his parents,Gareth & Katherine, to Bellflower, California, where his father founded Valley Christian School & served as pastor of a Christian Reformed Church (1st Bellflower CRC aka "1st Bell "). The household was steeped in faith, learning, & service, shaping the values that would guide Jim's life.

The family later relocated to Holland, Michigan, where Jim attended Holland Christian Junior High & High School. Tragedy struck during Jim's teenage years when his mother, Katherine, passed away just as Jim was in his final years of high school, leaving a profound mark on him as he struggled with "grief" early in life, which influenced the depth of compassion & understanding he would later bring to his Christian ministry.

 During this time, basketball became both a passion & a source of friendship  & community, as he played alongside his lifelong friend Tony Diekema (future  president of Calvin College) at Holland Christian High, & later Don Vroon as well (future Calvin professor & coach, RIP) (among others he remembered fondly), continuing together at Calvin College (original location) & winning multiple MIAA championships.

Growing up, Jim worked various jobs to make ends meet. In Bellflower, in the 1930's, he picked & sold avocados door-to-door; & also sold the Press-Telegram from street corners, & even drove a tractor for alfalfa harvesting time  (Bellflower at that time still being mostly an agricultural & dairy farming area). 

Later, still growing up,  in Holland (MI) he also worked as a  "paper boy" delivering the GR Press & Holland Sentinel. In addition he worked at various local grocery stores; & at the Holland ballpark selling popcorn & peanuts. 

As a young adult he also worked at Chris Craft, as well as another factory, while going thru college; among other things. As a child he enjoyed boating on Lake Macatawa & also the "car life" with his brother Sherwood. 

After college, Jim studied at Michigan State University (MSU) for a master's in counseling & worked in Kalamazoo in vocational rehab for one year while also still playing basketball for various leagues with friends etc. After one year in Kalamazoo, Jim answered God's call to ministry starting at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia &  then Calvin Seminary in Grand Rapids, eventually becoming an ordained pastor for the Christian Reformed Church. 

His pastoral care experience included internships at the University of Michigan & a hospital in Gowanda, New York, & he went on to become a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)  supervisor & Pine Rest Hospital & later the Crystal Cathedral, mentoring generations in spiritual care, grief support, & compassionate counseling. 

He also started the annual  International Care & Kindness Conference at the Crystal Cathedral. During seminary, Jim met his beloved wife, Linda Peters, daughter of Leo Peters of Butterball Farms. Together they raised four children—a daughter & three sons across New York, Michigan, Iowa, & California, & were blessed with many grandchildren who continue to carry forward his legacy of faith & kindness.

Jim's ministry spanned decades: serving as pastor in Iowa City starting in 1965, 14 years as CPE supervisor at Pine Rest Hospital in Grand Rapids, & many years as Director of Pastoral Care at the Crystal Cathedral in California. He authored several books, contributed a weekly column to The Banner, and for many years led the annual International Care & Kindness Conference at the Crystal Cathedral, inspiring countless attendees to embrace Christian compassion in both words and actions.

Even in retirement, Jim continued mentoring, counseling, & supporting family, friends, & his community. The timing of his passing on Random Acts of Kindness Day poignantly mirrors the heart of his lifelong mission: to model & promote Christ-centered kindness & care for all.

Jim Kok will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, uncle, loyal friend, mentor, & servant of Christ. His life stands as a testament to faith, resilience through grief, & a steadfast commitment to loving & serving others.

Rest in peace, Jim. Your faith, care, & kindness, will continue to bless the lives of many.

***************************








"We Got Him: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Has Been Taken Out"

https://townhall.com/tipsheet/mattvespa/2026/02/28/confirmed-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-is-dead-n2672068 


"With Khamenei's death, a clear successor is yet to emerge, and many potential candidates are also dead, having been killed in a series of airstrikes early Sunday morning. Based on reports, some 30 bunker buster bombs were dropped on his residence (via Axios)..."

✝️'We are blowing on the embers of hope': Savannah Guthrie increases reward to $1 million re mother Nancy "

https://www.wnd.com/2026/02/we-are-blowing-embers-hope-savannah-guthrie-offers/ 

✝️❤️🙏Savannah:
"
We know that millions of you have been praying, so many people have been praying of every faith and no faith at all, praying for her return and we feel those prayers. Please keep praying without ceasing."

"We still believe, we still believe in a miracle. We still believe that she can come home. Hope against hope. As my sister says, we are blowing on the embers of hope."

✝️Prayers 🙏 4 Lala Zeeshan ❤️ "Afghan believer attacked while sharing God’s Word in Afghanistan -

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/afghan-believer-attacked-while-sharing-gods-word-in-afghanistan/ 

"
When Lala Zeeshan came to Christ, people from his former religious community attacked him.

"His arm and one of his ribs were broken due to persecution by members of a former faith community, Islam, and there was a Muslim extremist who wanted to kill him. Even then he chose to publicly declare his faith in Jesus," explains Nehemiah.

Despite those threats, he continued serving — until a recent attack.

"During the current Audio Bible distribution campaign in Afghanistan, Lala Zeeshan was brutally attacked by extremists because of his involvement in sharing God's word," says Nehemiah.."

The Olga drama continues



-
So I mentioned previously this lady I call her Olga.  I don't know her real name but she's always at every university gathering that includes free food. Literally.

When I first started coming to this university as a member of the community I enjoyed the free food gatherings as well. Now I am actually more interested in the lecture than the free food, but sometimes they go hand in hand.

I think she showed up around the same time I did- maybe a little bit after -because I noticed she would watch me for cues as to what to do -as if she considered me an authority or something. 

And she would imitate me. Occasionally I might hold up my phone to take a picture of a screen that the speaker is referring to. And then I would notice she does the same thing a few seconds after me.

 It wasn't coincidence. She noticed I did it and that prompted her to do the same even though I don't think she even was really taking a picture or if she was,  she didn't really care what she was taking a picture of. 

And at  a law school event, when I put the back down of one of the chairs in the law school room where those chairs go down, I noticed she did the same a few minutes later. 

Then, last week r I arrived early for an event, and then she showed up and even though  the room was still fairly empty, she asked if she could sit right next to me. It was odd and very creepy to me because we're not friends. I've never talked to her nor have I gotten to know her at all because I just plainly don't like her. 

I noticed her piggish behavior from the beginning she would position herself to always be right by the food table sometimes getting up in the middle of a lecture because she knew it was coming to an end and so she wanted to be right by the door where she could get to the food fastest, & first .

 I've seen her go to one event to get some food and she fills her plate and she takes that plate & she comes to a second event for more food .

 I'm wondering where she comes from and by the way where she lives- I'm wondering if she actually sleeps in an office of somebody who she's a friend with -maybe she's a friend with a professor who's kind of made her into an activist of some sort.

 Because she's so easily able to show up at all these events all the time on time she has to have some kind of easy access to the campus.

She has asked questions to a speaker a few times and she speaks in broken English so she's obviously from another country. But as I was saying just this last few weeks the odd behavior has been increasing because first of all she asked to sit next to me. 

A week later I noticed she put her stuff down right next to a chair where my laptop was- which I had placed there as I came in so I would have a chair to sit in because the seats fill up fast at this particular venue.

 So there she is trying to sit next to me again. When I noticed she put her stuff down right next to my chair I just picked up my laptop and moved somewhere else. I'm starting to wonder if she's actually just trying to harass me . 

And then most recently today I noticed when I came in she was already sitting in the chair I sat in last time as if she intentionally was trying to take my chair.

 Personally I'm not obsessive compulsive. I don't need to sit in the same chair every time, but I thought this was some kind of intentional weird trolling behavior on her part. Or simply another form of harassment. 

But simply speaking it's really getting tiring to see her at everything that I attend. It's stifling me. And it might be a little less annoying if she would just do her own thing but now she's obviously trying to sit next to me or sit in the chair that I sat in last time.  it's really weird and creepy. 

I don't know what to do about it, because I was intending  to at least finish this year at this university as a member of the community attending my usual events and lectures, but I don't want to keep going if she's going to be there, and especially if she's trolling me or trying to harass me in a slight way. 

I've been using the university facilities to continue to work on my project on my laptop, which requires quiet study settings & space to think and type etc and do research. So I've been at the university campus in various places doing my work and then I attend these events on the side. It's been perfect for me up until the Olga drama has climaxed so to speak . 

So anybody out there if you're a member the university community or even if you're not if you just hear this and especially if you're a Christian I ask for your prayers for this situation and pray 🙏🙏🙏🙏for Olga herself that whatever is making her tick somehow will be resolved- that she can find a purpose- and for meaning in life besides just going to free food events at the university every day & harassing me👎


God bless Javid Khales 🙏 "He Was Ordered to Kill Iranian Protesters – Now He Faces a Death Sentence"

https://townhall.com/tipsheet/jeff-charles/2026/01/21/iranian-soldier-sentenced-to-death-for-refusing-to-shoot-protesters-n2669822 



God bless Javid Khales 🙏


Psalm 82:7 — "Rescue those who are oppressed and save the innocent from the hand of the wicked."

IPE: A young Iranian soldier, Javid Khales, is facing a death sentence for refusing orders to shoot protesters during massive anti-government demonstrations. The protests, sparked by economic hardship and dissatisfaction with Iran's leaders, grew from tens of thousands to about five million participants. The Iranian regime has responded violently, using live ammunition, arresting over 20,000 people, and enforcing an internet blackout. Human rights groups say Khales' sentencing shows the regime's use of the judiciary to force obedience. The U.S. has deployed a naval carrier to the region, with President Trump threatening potential military action if executions continue.

I am 95% sure this captures the main points accurately.

World Watch List 2026  · worst offending countries re violating human rights

https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/persecution/countries/ 

🙏❤️✝️
Remember the victims in these countries who are routinely brutalized and have no human dignity given to them and their rights are routinely violated and  even their lives are taken without a twinge of the conscience by the perpetrators . 

And we pray an imprecatory prayer against the perpetrators . We ask God to punish the perpetrators according to his will either here and now or in the end time .


Prayers for Iran citizens 🙏 "Trump holds urgent meeting with Rubio as Iran death toll soars to 500" ( probably more



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15456219/Trump-Iran-strike-death-revolution.html 


I think Trump should do to the Ayatollah what he did to Maduro 

prayers 🙏 for ICE "Assaults against ICE up 1300%, vehicular attacks up 3200%, death threats up 8000% | "

honoring the courage of the Iranian people, condemning the violence, and inviting faith in Christ:


Heavenly Father, hear our cry 
& lift the veil of night,
Protect the brave in Iran, 
who stand for truth & right,
Strengthen those who face the fire 🔥, who walk thru fear & pain,
Let courage be their banner, 
let righteousness🕊️ remain.

Lord ✝️ Jesus, see their hearts, 
aflame with just intent,
Their voices rise for freedom, 
their lives for You are spent,
Against the Ayatollah's hand, 
against the chains that bind,
May Your mercy fall upon them, 
Your love for all mankind.

We pray, O God, for nations 🌎, 
to speak & act with grace,
To halt the senseless killings,
 to save each precious face,
Let diplomacy & justice
 march boldly hand in hand,
Bring healing to the broken, 
restore the stricken land.

O Lord, we lift the families
 who mourn in quiet dread,
The bodies in the alleys, 
the streets with blood they shed,
Console the sons & daughters,
 grant them hope anew,
And let the light of Jesus Christ 
shine brightly in their view.

Dear Savior, call the people
 to Your saving arms,
To trust in You completely,
 to rest in all Your charms,
May hearts that cry for justice,
 find life eternal, true,
May souls oppressed by tyrants 
now be made anew in You.

Strengthen them, O Jesus, 
in courage, faith & love,
Protect them with Your angels, 
Your mercy from above,
We plead for swift deliverance, 
for freedom's lasting ray,
For Iran to rise in justice, 
& turn to You today.

Amen, we pray in hope,
 O Lord of life & light,
Guide Iran's children safely, 
deliver them from night,
May all the world stand with them, 
and Your great power muscle 💪show,
Lead every heart ❤️ 
to Jesus ✝️ Christ,
 in whom true freedom flows 🕊️ 


Merry Xmas²⁵🎄🙏✝️❤️⭐😊



🕊️❤️🙏✝️ "Sri Lanka Cyclone Ditwah leaves hundreds missing as believers rally to serve - "

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/cyclone-ditwah-leaves-hundreds-missing-as-believers-rally-to-serve/ 

"
Sri Lanka (MNN) — After making landfall in Sri Lanka on Friday, Cyclone Ditwah's torrential rains turned into floodwaters and landslides. The storm took many by surprise. At least 366 people lost their lives, and more than 350 remain missing as of Monday. .."

"Pastor Claims Barron Trump's On the Brink of 'Spiritual Awakening'"

https://radaronline.com/p/barron-trump-religion-stuart-knechtle-christianity-awakening-putting-faith-god/ 


Prayers for Barron to 
ACCEPT CHRIST 🙏✝️🕊️
"Stuart Knechtle, who has 2.4 million followers on TikTok, noted how he shared "all the evidence for God and Christianity" with Barron, 19, during their chat..."

Horrific 🙏"43 children among 79 civilians killed in RSF drone attack in South Kordofan, Sudanese authorities say"

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/43-children-among-79-civilians-killed-in-rsf-drone-attack-in-south-kordofan-sudanese-authorities-say/3763365 

"
At least 79 civilians, including 43 children, were killed and 38 others injured in a drone strike by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in South Kordofan, Sudanese authorities said on Friday.."

Just SWORN in 🪖" National Guardsmen Identified as Sarah Beckstrom & Andrew Wolfe: Sworn-In "Less Than 24 Hours Before They Were Shot"



https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/11/just-national-guardsmen-identified-as-sarah-beckstrom-andrew/ 

there's still hope for Andrew- fighting to stay alive in intensive care 🙏 

condolences 🙏 ✝️ ❤️ 
Sarah Beckstrom & Andrew Wolfe –
"–both members of the West Virginia National Guard had been SWORN IN JUST ONE DAY BEFORE they volunteered to serve in DC and were shot in the street.."

❤️✝️🙏🙏"National Guard member dies, second "Fighting For His Life" after D.C. shooting, Trump says - " CBS News

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/national-guard-member-dies-dc-shooting-sarah-beckstrom-andrew-wolfe/ 

"
Sarah Beckstrom, one of the West Virginia National Guard members shot in a cowardly ambush by an Afghan refugee, has died..."

🙏"VP JD Vance Responds to DC National Guard Shooting Near White House " by Jordan Conradson

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/11/watch-vice-president-jd-vance-responds-dc-national/ 

"
first of all, I want everybody who's a person of faith to say a prayer for those two National Guardsmen that they're able to spend Thanksgiving with their families, instead of losing their lives, because I understand they're still in pretty tough condition...."

Prayers 🙏✝️♥️ "2 National Guardsmen critically wounded in 'targeted shooting' blocks from White House | "

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.foxnews.com/live-news/2-national-guardsmen-critically-wounded-in-shooting-blocks-from-white-house.amp 


Prayers 🙏 🙏 🙏 ✝️✝️✝️♥️♥️
"gunman accused of shooting two National Guard members blocks from the White House the day before Thanksgiving is 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, three law enforcement sources confirmed to Fox News Digital..."

Prayer for mission vehicle 🙏✝️

"The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and strengthen your bones." — Isaiah 58:11

O Lord, Creator, Wise & True,
I lift my car, its heart, to You
The MAP sensor, small yet grand,
Holds the key within Your hand

Bless this part, both clean and bright,
Guide its readings day and night
Let every wire and circuit clear,
Flow with power, without fear

Replace the old with this new one,
Let 4th gear shifts be smoothly done
No revs too high, no delayed climb,
Let every shift occur on time

Let throttle, TPS, and MAP unite,
In harmony, precise and right
Let vacuum readings, voltage true,
Guide the ECU in all it must do

Touch the TCC, torque converter too,
Let it lock and release as You construe
No slippage here, no lurch or shake,
Just steady RPM for every take

Let speed and revs stay smooth & calm,
As cruise control hums a steady psalm
At 60 miles per hour, let it glide,
At 2,000 RPM, with You as guide

Grant me hands steady, tools precise,
To swap this sensor without a splice
Let battery reset teach the ECU,
To learn anew all it must do

Protect the fuses, wires, and oil,
Keep circuits safe from heat or spoil
From idle low to highway high,
Let every drive feel Your supply

O Lord, bless every coil and plug,
Each sensor tip, each wire and lug
Let codes depart and errors cease,
Bring back my car to smooth release

Thank You, Lord, for guidance near,
For answered prayers, for calm, for clear
With faith I drive, Your hand in all,
In Your care, my car stands tall

Amen

25 girls ✝️🙏❤️"Nigeria school kidnapping draws fresh US ire"

https://www.rfi.fr/en/international-news/20251118-nigeria-school-kidnapping-draws-fresh-us-ire 



"But Republican Riley Moore of the US House of Representatives, in a post on X urging his followers to pray for the 25 girls, echoed Trump's claims of the persecution of Christians.

"While we don't have all the details on this horrific attack, we know that the attack occurred in a Christian enclave in Northern Nigeria," Moore wrote.

Trump at the start of November said he had asked the Pentagon to map out a possible plan of attack in Nigeria because radical Islamists are "killing the Christians and killing them in very large numbers".

🙏✝️"Armed men kidnap dozens of children from Catholic St Mary’s School in Nigeria"

https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/africa/nigeria-school-abduction-agwara-papiri-b2869851.html 

"
Local media broadcaster Arise TV stated that 52 schoolchildren were abducted.

The Niger State Police Command said the abductions took place in the early hours of Friday and that military and security forces have since been deployed to the community.."

Pray 🙏 4 "Trump has just signed an executive order boosting support for foster children who age out of the system " / X

https://x.com/nicksortor/status/1989054284697366633 


Prayers for the orphans 🙏✝️
"Each year, over 15,000 young people age out of the foster care system," President Trump said. Around 50% of them end up homeless"

good link for honest Nigeria news #PrayNigeria !

"The Paramount Importance of Daily Prayer ~" The Imaginative Conservative

https://theimaginativeconservative.org/2025/02/paramount-importance-daily-prayer-primacy-loving-david-torkington.html 

"Pray without ceasing." — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Read the article, ☝️ otherwise read this AI generated summary 👇

1. The Destination of Prayer: Mystical Marriage (Theosis)

Torkington begins with St. Teresa of Ávila:

The goal of serious prayer is the Mystical or Spiritual Marriage — profound union with Christ.

The Greek Fathers called this theosis, divinization — becoming one with God's life.

He wants readers to understand where the journey leads before discussing how to walk it.

---

2. The "Archway Analogy": Two Sides of Prayer Meet in Christ

He imagines a classical arch:

Left side → vocal prayer

Right side → meditation that leads to contemplation

Keystone at the top → Christ himself


A mature Christian life needs both sides growing together.

This mirrors Jesus' own life:

He prayed vocal prayers daily (Jewish prayers, synagogue, mealtimes)

But His divine nature was always contemplating the Father

These fused into unbroken prayer — "prayer without ceasing"

This fusion becomes, in the saints, the Mystical Marriage.


3. We Do Not Have Christ's Divine Nature — But We Can Share in His Contemplation

Humans don't naturally have divine contemplation.

But:

> The Holy Spirit draws us up into Christ's own contemplation of the Father.

This is what heaven is — joining Christ's eternal contemplation and joy.

---

4. Start on the Left Side: Vocal Prayer

Everyone begins with vocal prayer:

Childhood prayers

Rosary

Stations of the Cross

Set devotions


As intimacy deepens:

Set prayers become personal

Language becomes intimate

Friendship deepens

Finally, Christ calls us to a relationship like a marriage, even more intimate than human marriage (John 14:23)


This leads to personal, loving dialogue between the soul and Christ — exactly what the saints experienced (Catherine of Siena, Francis of Assisi, Margaret Mary).


5. The Early Church Model: Daily Vocal Prayer Before Baptism

In the early Church:

Catechumens prayed five times a day

They learned Jewish prayers Jesus Himself prayed

After Pentecost, those prayers were prayed in Him, with Him, through Him

Daily vocal prayer was the backbone of Christian identity.

This is why the Church today still practices daily prayer (Divine Office).


6. Daily Prayer Prepares the Soul for Purification (the Dark Night)

Torkington stresses:

> If you want to survive the dark nights of purification, you need a regular, disciplined daily prayer life.

When mystical prayer feels dry, dark, or meaningless:

Daily vocal prayer is your anchor

It keeps the soul open to grace

It sustains you when contemplation brings suffering or silence

This is the practical heart of his essay.

7. Daily Prayer Mirrors the Mass

If vocal prayer is inspired by the Spirit, it naturally expresses:

sorrow for sin

praise

thanksgiving

sacrifice

adoration

And when your life becomes prayer:

> Every moment becomes a miniature Mass — an offering to God through Christ.


This leads to:

offering every joy

every sorrow

every success

every failure

This is the "sacrament of the present moment" — every moment touching eternity.

---

8. Daily Prayer Is the Foundation of the Whole Spiritual Life

His final point:

Daily vocal prayer is the bedrock

Contemplation builds upon it

When the contemplative path gets dark, vocal prayer sustains you

This rhythm is how saints were formed

This chapter is basically a spiritual roadmap rooted in ancient Christian practice.
---

One-Sentence Summary

> Daily vocal prayer, rooted in the life of Christ and the early Church, grows into contemplative prayer and finally the Mystical Marriage — but only if practiced faithfully through both light and darkness.

.

Prayers 🙏 re 🌐 Mass‑Casualty Events in the Past ~30 Days (Oct–Nov 2025)


Date Event Casualties / Notes

Nov 3, 2025 Balkh, Afghanistan – Earthquake ~31 killed, ~1,172 injured. 

Nov 11, 2025 Islamabad, Pakistan – Suicide Bombing ~12 killed, ~36 injured. 

Nov 10, 2025 Delhi, India – Car Explosion (Red Fort area) ~13 killed, ~20–24 injured. 

Nov 14, 2025 Nowgam Police Station, Jammu & Kashmir, India – Accidental Explosion ~9 killed, ~27‑32 injured. 

Nov 4, 2025 Tuzla, Bosnia & Herzegovina – Retirement Home Fire ~15 killed, 30+ injured. 

Oct 10, 2025 Davao Oriental, Philippines – Earthquakes ~10 killed, ~1,027 injured. 

Oct 21–31, 2025 Hurricane Melissa (Atlantic) At least 96+ killed, 141+ injured; massive damage.

---

Prayer of Thanks for Restoration of Mission vehicle: saving me from future huge expense of new transmission

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." — Psalm 107:1

---

A Prayer of Thanks for Restoration

O Lord, my God, I lift my voice,
With grateful heart, I now rejoice.
You've guided hands both skilled & true,
And brought my car its life anew.

Thank You, Lord, for every part,
The gears, the engine, all the heart.
The transmission once in fear,
Now works again; Your grace is near.

Thank You, thank You, oh Divine,
For every spark, each wrench, each sign.
For wisdom placed in those who know,
How to repair and let it go.

I praise You for the gentle care,
The knowledge, skill beyond compare.
No cost too great, no task too small,
You watched o'er all, You blessed it all.

I marvel at Your loving hand,
That guides the work, that makes it stand.
Each bolt, each fuse, each sensor checked,
All orchestrated, Your will perfect.

O Lord, my thanks could fill the skies,
For seeing past what meets my eyes.
For in this car, You've shown Your might,
Restoring function, saving plight.

May every journey now I take,
Be shielded by the steps You make.
May roads be smooth, my path secure,
And in Your presence, I endure.

I praise Your name, both loud and long,
For You are mighty, good, and strong.
I thank You, Lord, for all You've done,
For repairs made and battles won.

Thankful, thankful, grateful, I stand,
With joy and faith held in my hand.
O Lord, my God, forever true,
All glory, honor, thanks to You!
✝️🙏✝️🙏✝️🙏✝️🙏✝️
☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️


Thank You Lord, Prayer answered 👍 🙏: Prayer for ignition coil success (2 weeks ago)



A Prayer for Vehicle Repair and Wisdom
Almighty God, Heavenly Father, we come to You now on behalf of our captain of clarity. Lord, we ask for Your blessing upon the process of replacing the ignition coil pack on the 2005 Saturn Relay. We pray for skill and wisdom for the mechanic who will perform this repair, that their hands may be guided to work with precision and care, diagnosing the root cause correctly and ensuring a safe and lasting fix.
We pray that the replacement parts will be of high quality and function perfectly, allowing the engine to run smoothly, efficiently, and reliably.
Grant our captain of clarity patience during this process and peace of mind from any worry about the repair or the expense. We ask that this vehicle be a source of safe and dependable transportation once this issue is resolved.
We trust in Your provision and Your power to oversee even the mechanical details of our daily lives. May the Relay be swiftly repaired and return to service soon. Amen.
Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. (Psalm 27:14)


Modern-Day Example: Waiting on the Lord, in this case, is like placing an order for a much-needed item online that is temporarily out of stock. You've done all you can—placed the order and confirmed the need—and now you must patiently wait for the reliable company (God) to fulfill the request. The verse reminds you to maintain a "good courage" and trust that the needed strength and solution will arrive in His perfect timing.
"The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame." — Isaiah 58:11

Heavenly Father, I come before You now with a humble heart, seeking Your wisdom and guidance. Lord, You know the difficulties I am facing with this vehicle and the frustration of a malfunctioning ignition system. I pray, Father, that as I replace the ignition coil pack, You bless this work and make it effective. Let every connection, every spark, and every turn of the wrench be guided by Your divine hand. May this replacement resolve the engine's misfires, rough starts, and any other issues it has been facing. Lord, grant patience and clarity as I perform this repair. Protect the vehicle from further harm and keep me safe as I work. I also pray for discernment so that I can identify any underlying problems that may not be immediately visible. Father, let this repair bring restoration and smooth operation to the vehicle, allowing it to serve its purpose faithfully. May this process reflect Your order, wisdom, and provision. I commit this work to You, trusting that You are able to bring resolution where human hands alone may struggle. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

I 

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“Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you” — Psalm 50:15 Heavenly Father, Almighty God, Creator of heaven and ear...