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Orphans and Widows Sunday
An event every year that begins at 12:00 am on day second of November, repeating until November 14, 2027
Orphan and Widow Sunday reminds us to align our hearts with the call to practice true religion (James 1:27), caring for orphans and widows. Here are three ways a believer can be mindful of them throughout the year.
Be Near to the Brokenhearted
Scripture tells us clearly that God is close to the brokenhearted (Ps. 34:18). So, those of us who choose to imitate Christ know that being Christlike means that we should be close to the brokenhearted as well, and this includes caring for orphans and widows in our communities. The local church has the profound opportunity to be near to the brokenhearted over a long period of time. Whereas it is hard for one individual to carry the weight of being near all the time, there is strength and stability when a group of people dedicate themselves to those who are suffering, whether to widows in our communities or children placed in foster care.
Make Service a Way of Life
When we look at Scripture, it is undeniable that serving those in need is a critical part of the believer’s life. And so, we don’t merely give lip service to orphans and widows this Sunday, we find ways to serve them throughout the year and practice the biblical call to a lifestyle of service.
Cover Them in Prayer
In addition, prayer should always undergird our care for the widow and orphan. Prayer is never an empty sentiment in the believer’s life. Instead, it’s a powerful tool to advance God’s Kingdom in our world, and so we pray big and audacious prayers over the orphaned and widowed. We pray boldly, “Thy Kingdom come,” with all its restoration and redemption, “on this earth as it is in heaven.”
A Prayer for Orphan and Widow Sunday
God, we thank You that You are a Father to the fatherless and near to the brokenhearted. Open our eyes to see the needs of orphans and widows around us, and teach us to love them not only with words, but through faithful action and prayer. Strengthen your Church to draw near with compassion and to reflect the hope of Christ in our communities and around the world, so that orphans and widows may experience your steadfast love through the care of Your people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
