A Century-Old Prayer for China

While doing some research, our son Josh came across this prayer for China in a missions prayerbook from the early 1900s. He remarked that though much has changed in China since then, this prayer applies as much today as it did back then. For reasons I can’t quite explain, I have returned to this prayer several times. Reading it reminds me that true prayer transcends time and place. 

Gracious God, Giver of all good gifts and loving Father of all mankind, for China and her millions we come before thee with this petition. How great is her need of thee at this hour of transition and reformation! We see forces that are dark and ungodly surging and surrounding this newly-awakened land, foes from without and foes from within. Lift her and guide her, we do pray thee, that through all the trials and uncertainty of the present she may soon emerge a nation purged from all impurity and heralding peace and righteousness on earth.

Father, we know the task is tremendous. Grant us courage for it. We pray for guidance and strength for all those who are engaged in the regeneration of China and her people. May those who are active in the government rule with pure motives and in the spirit of service. And may those who are working directly for the coming of thy kingdom in China, missionaries and native workers alike, preach, through word and deed, with power and wisdom, that the hungry millions may find food and satisfaction in thy spiritual truth. May the day soon come, when, in bodies purified, minds enlightened, and souls purged from sin, there may be manifested the spirit of our Lord in China and throughout the world.

China calls for thy light, life, and glory, O God! Bless her and appropriate her for thy kingdom, that the name of Jesus may be glorified in China and among her people. Amen