Read Daniel 9:1-19
Daniel’s prayer may have been a cry out on behalf of his people, but it could be a prayer for us, too. Daniel prayed this prayer in the first year of King Darius’ rule, could this have actually been King Cyrus? Historically, King Cyrus follows King Belshazzar.
Another observation that has been made about this prayer is how it beautifully knits together many different prayer fragments found elsewhere in Scripture. We’ve probably seen a similar thing and not even known.
For instance, the Lutheran liturgy I grew up with is full of Biblical references in prayers and statements of faith. As a child, I didn’t realize that. But as an adult, each time I encountered one of those Scripture references I was catapulted back to my childhood sitting in the pews.
How does it make you feel to have been prayed for by a prophet? Have you ever prayed a general prayer that could encompass future generations? I know I have. Especially when I pray for our grandchildren and their children’s children. What will this world look like for them?
Daniel’s prayer includes some great elements. I’ve shared my prayer formula many times. It’s not really “mine,” it’s just the one I use all the time. Do we see all the components from the acronym, “ACTS” here? That is, Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. Thanksgiving might be the one that is missing or wrapped up in some of the adoration.
Confession seems to be Daniel’s main focus. He has come to the realization that his people have really messed up. It’s like he connected all the dots and can clearly see that God was always faithful, it was the rebellious people of God who couldn’t see the blessings of God beyond their own selfish desires.
Is it any different today? Are people lining up by the droves to give honor and glory to God or are they trying to remove God from society all together? You’ll recall Daniel had a time in his life when he couldn’t “legally” pray to the LORD and spent a night in the lion’s den for it. Daniel stayed faithful to God despite what was happening around him. Many did not stay true.
From the sounds of Daniel’s prayer, it wasn’t a popular thing to be one of God’s chosen. They have been taking abuse for years. In Daniel’s words to God, “All the neighboring nations mock Jerusalem and your people because of our sins and the sins of our ancestors.”
Of course, God knew the predicament of his people. He was well acquainted with their rebellion. Yet, God never turned a blind eye because of his love for us. I can say “us” because we non-Jews have been adopted into God’s family. John 3:16 reminds us that God sent Jesus because he loved the “whole” world, not just a select few.
What does your prayer to God look like for your people, your family, your coworkers, your neighbors?
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for your love and mercy. I am humbled that you, the creator of all that exists, would care for me. Forgive me for my disobedience. Help me stand strong against distractions and forces of evil trying to interfere with my relationship with you. I long to grow closer to you every day. I do pray for my children and all their children yet to be born. May they know and worship you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
