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DIXON – In Dixon, we are surrounded by reminders of faith and history.
One of those reminders comes from Nelle Reagan, a woman of deep prayer and conviction who called Dixon home. In her Bible, she highlighted 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
Her passion for prayer and her belief in its power remind us of something timeless: Prayer changes things.
As we step into 2025, we carry both the challenges of yesterday and the hope of tomorrow. Many of us feel weary, pulled in every direction by the demands of life or weighed down by fears and uncertainties. Sometimes we feel alone in these struggles. But the truth is, we are not alone. God’s invitation to pray isn’t for perfect people; it’s for all of us – just as we are, wherever we are.
The power of prayer
Prayer isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t require a specific place or time. You don’t need to be in church to pray (although I’d love to see you at church).
Prayer is simply talking to God. It can happen in the quiet of your home, on your commute or during a walk through the fields that surround our beautiful town.
When you pray, you open your heart to God’s love and presence. You don’t need fancy words or a perfect life to pray. You only need the willingness to come before him. Prayer reminds us that even when life feels heavy, we are never alone. God hears us, loves us and wants to walk with us through every moment, good and bad.
We need prayer now more than ever
As a community, we’ve faced our share of struggles. Whether it’s the pain of loss, financial pressures or the uncertainty of what lies ahead, there’s no shortage of reasons to turn to prayer. Nelle Reagan’s favorite verse reminds us that God hears the prayers of his people. When we humble ourselves and pray, when we seek his face and trust him, he promises to respond.
I’ve experienced the power of prayer in my own life. There have been times when I’ve felt completely alone – like no one understood the weight I was carrying. In those moments, I turned to God. Sometimes the circumstances didn’t change right away, but my heart did. Through prayer, I found peace that didn’t make sense and strength I didn’t know I had. And I’ve seen this same peace and strength in others who have walked this road, too. You’re not alone in your struggles, and through prayer, you can find hope.
A simple invitation to pray
As 2025 begins, let’s remember the power of prayer. It doesn’t take much to get started – just a quiet moment and an open heart. If you’re not sure what to say, start with something simple, like “God, I need you,” or “God, thank you for walking with me.” Prayer isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection.
And although you don’t have to go to church to pray, I’d encourage you to find a church to call home. Worshipping together, hearing God’s word and being surrounded by people who will pray with and for you can bring strength and encouragement.
Our church here in Dixon welcomes everyone, whether it’s been years since you’ve attended church or you’re just curious about what faith is all about. We’d love to pray with you and walk alongside you on this journey.
Let’s begin this year in prayer
As we reflect on the words Nelle Reagan cherished, let’s take them to heart. Let’s humble ourselves; seek God’s face; and pray for our families, our community and our world. Prayer is a gift – a lifeline in times of trouble and a way to give thanks in times of joy. Together, we can create a community where prayer is not just something we do, but part of who we are.
So, let’s start 2025 with prayer. Whether it’s in the stillness of your home, at church or while walking through the beauty of Dixon, take a moment to turn your heart to God. He’s waiting, and he promises to listen.
You’re not alone. And as we pray, together we can face whatever this year brings with hope, peace and strength.
- Mike Sutcliffe is the pastor of Corner Fringe Ministries in Dixon.