by Rev. Doug Leaman
Soli Deo Gloria in Aldeia, Brazil
the Missions Banner, April 2024: Print edition
Strange and terrible things happen in the world of politics. Eduardo Campos, a prominent Brazilian politician from Recife, Pernambuco, served as the Governor of Pernambuco. He was also a presidential candidate in 2014. Tragically, Campos died suddenly in a plane crash during the election campaign, shocking the world. He left behind his wife and five children.
His son, João Campos, now serves as the Mayor of Recife at the age of thirty. He is undoubtedly one of the most influential and well-known political figures in Northeast Brazil, emerging as a rising star in Brazilian politics.
The reason I mention all this is because last week, I was called to pray at the inauguration of a new building in downtown old Recife and this mayor was by my side. It’s rare for a pastor/missionary to have a voice of influence in these spheres. My prayer was as follows:
“Our Father who art in heaven; hallowed be thy name. We know that you are the Creator of heaven and earth. You reveal to us in your Word that you are a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in your being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth. We praise you for being a God who speaks to your creatures in your Word. You also speak to us daily, showing us your glory through the things you have created: the beautiful ocean, the sun, and the gifts you have given to those who bear your image.
We know that the primary purpose of human life is to live for your glory. You have called all your creatures to love you with all our heart, mind, and soul, and you have called us to love our neighbor as ourselves. We confess that we have not obeyed your holy law of love. Human history and our own lives clearly demonstrate that we have sinned in thought, word, and deed. Yet, you have provided a way for humanity to be reconciled to you. We praise you for the perfect work of your Son on the cross of Calvary to save sinners. You gave your Son as a Holy substitute. He was crucified, buried, and rose from the dead. May all know of this way of salvation, this good news through the blood of Christ.
You, Lord, have done everything for our salvation and now, in gratitude, we desire to live a life dedicated to your glory. We want to dedicate the work of our hands, hearts, and minds to you. We pray that this newly renovated building be used for your glory and an instrument to serve, help, and bless many lives. We pray for many jobs to be provided so that people can care for themselves and their loved ones. We pray that you bless this company for your glory and that you continue to use Liferay to bless many individuals and families. We thank you for this beautiful building and for all the gifts given to men to recreate. May you continue to bless this company, this city, this state, and this nation. May we have peace and prosperity in your name. We ask all this in the beautiful name of Jesus. Amen.”
Please pray that the kings of this world would bow their knee to the sovereign Lord of the universe.
Thank you for your prayers and presence with us,
Soli Deo Gloria
(pictured above: Pastor Doug Praying with the Mayor of Recife)
