A Call to Prayer

for Missing, Exploited, and Trafficked Children

Day 3

Thank you for joining Day 3 of the 10-day prayer initiative for missing, exploited, and trafficked children. The focus of this day is on praying with hearts broken for those who mourn, grieving with the families in distress, and pleading that they may be comforted.

As a reminder, each day in this initiative includes Scriptures upon which to read and reflect, a basic discussion regarding the intention of the prayer topic, and a prayer that is to simply serve as a guide or starting point; what matters most is that we are directed by Biblical truth, lean into further intimacy with the heart of God, and be lead by the Spirit.

Throughout this call to prayer, share your prayers in the comments that we may join you through this journey.

Praying for Comfort for the Families of Missing Kids

Far too often, the pain, grief, and heartache of the families of missing loved ones is forgotten; many suffer the loss of a missing child alone. While their loved one is missing, they are left in isolation to cry and grieve, advocate for support, and potentially have to answer accusatory questions. They endure sleepless nights while struggling through the practical dilemmas of stopping their search to maintain employment, eat, and rest. But, the Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He comforts those who mourn. And, so should we. We should draw near to the hurting and the grieving. We should weep with those who weep and rejoice when they rejoice. We should remind them of the goodness of God and that all who put their trust in Him will not be disappointed. And, even (and maybe even especially) after the family is reunited, when the missing child is found and returns home safely, we should continue to walk by their side and pray for their continued healing and restoration—their struggle isn’t over just because the case is resolved. We serve a God who heals and restores, who brings not only water from a rock but honey as well, who longs to wipe away every tear and sorrow.

Prayer

Lord, we pray that the families and loved ones of missing children will feel and know Your healing presence, that Your love will pour out on them and bring them comfort and peace. We know, Father, that You are attentive to our needs and active in bringing Your justice; let this also be known and experienced to the grieving that they may find joy and hope in the knowledge that they can trust in You. God, for Your glory, bring healing.

Jesus, lead us and all who are in despair to trust in You. Teach us to understand that trusting in You, turning to You in prayer, and relying on Your goodness is not equivalent to inaction or dereliction of responsibility. Open our eyes to see that running to You, Jesus, is running to life, wisdom, goodness, healing, refuge, hope, and aid. In the name of Jesus we pray that You, oh Lord, will reveal yourself as such to the families (to the fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and grandparents) of missing kids that they may know that You are their refuge in times of trouble, to know that You see them in their grief, and You are close to them in their heartache. Lord, reveal to these families that You and You alone are their salvation. Come, Lord, and move in close to all who are in need. Amen.

“I turn my eyes to the mountains; from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot give way; your guardian will not slumber; see, the guardian of Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps! The Lord is your guardian, the Lord is your protection at your right hand. By day the sun will not strike you, nor the moon by night. The Lord will guard you from all harm; He will guard your life. The Lord will guard your going and coming now and forever.” Psalm 121

Share your prayers in the comments.