Pray One for Another

This morning when I logged onto Facebook I noticed a status update from my longtime friend, Denise:

Such an encouraging way to start the day! 

As I read that I was reminded of a poem that Denise had sent me years ago when we were girlhood pen-pals. I know I saved it in my Quotes Journal. In fact, I think I saved the very sheet of pretty stationery she had copied it onto, in her beautiful handwriting. But do you think I could put my hands on a journal from 30-something years ago this morning? Of course not! (It is here somewhere, though, I'm pretty sure.)

I asked Denise if she remembered it. She didn't, but she was very interested in reading it again. I wracked my brain trying to remember the first line so I could Google it. It has taken me all day to think of it... but I finally have! 

So, Denise, this one's for you!

Pray One for Another 

by Marianne Farningham 

 I cannot tell why there should come to me 

A thought of someone miles and miles away, 

In swift insistence on the memory— 

Unless there be a need that I should pray. 

 Too hurried oft are we to spare a thought, 

For days together, of some friend away; 

Perhaps God does it for us, and we ought 

To read His signal as a call to pray. 

 Perhaps, just then, my friend has fiercer fight, 

Some overwhelming sorrow or decay 

Of courage; darkness, some lost sense of right; 

And so in case he needs my prayer, I pray. 

 Friend, do the same for me! If I unsought 

Intrude upon you on some crowded day, 

Give me a moment’s prayer, in passing thought; 

Be very sure I need it; therefore pray.