In the face of mounting challenges and daily struggle, they came asking God for help.
More than 50 people gathered Thursday in front of the Johnson County Courthouse, bowing their heads to pray for the community. On the National Day of Prayer, they harnessed the power of their faith, focusing on public servants, first responders, health care workers, educators and others.
Organizers recognized that the problems that we hear and read about can be overwhelming. But they reminded attendees that seeking God’s help is paramount, all year long.
“We have God’s presence, we have God’s power, we have God’s promises, so we can live with that hope,” said Gary Walker, pastor at Franklin City Church, after reading a biblical passage from Luke 18:1. “We’re gathered here today, but every day is a day of prayer, every day is a day to be persistent in prayer. Prayer works.”
The National Day of Prayer, which was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. The law was unanimously amended in 1988, designating the first Thursday in May as a day of national prayer.
Across the country, people celebrate the central idea of loving their neighbors, while pastors have come together to pray as one.
Leaders from a variety of local churches, as well representatives from religious organizations and gatherings within the community, stood in a semicircle Thursday to do just that.
Pastor Andy Kinsey of Grace United Methodist Church asked the crowd to consider forgiveness and thankfulness. After reading a portion of Paul’s Letter to the Philippians, he said.
“We want to be a people of thanksgiving today,” Kinsey said. “We want you to break into small groups, and take a moment to share your gratitude and what you’re thankful for, let that be known to God.”
Among the gathered group were Franklin officials, including mayor Steve Barnett, police chief Kirby Cochran and assistant deputy fire chief Joshua Snyder.
Each spoke about their own faith, and asked people to keep their departments and all of those who serve in their prayers.
“As police officers and firefighters and every day citizens, even though we might not agree politically, we might not agree on rules, regulations, speed limits and all of those things, it’s just a blessing to be in the city of Franklin and know that we have a good strong community partnership,” Cochran said.
Participants in the National Day of Prayer were also asked to consider area health workers, and the strain and stress they’ve faced over the past two years.
They’re tired and exhausted, said Dr. Gaston Dana, an internal medicine physician at Johnson Memorial Health. He asked for prayers to help them keep going.
“I would ask for strength and perseverance,” he said.
As part of the program, local musicians Alicia Tisdale and Ross Stackhouse led participants in a pair of songs, imploring them to put their hearts and trust into their faith.
Even when times are bad, God is there, Tisdale said.
“With the prayers and all praying together, it’s a great reminder to trust in Jesus,” she said.
