When I was a college student, I had many gospel activities. One of the most memorable experiences was having a prayer gathering with some Zion members in a lecture room.
We used to meet at 8 a.m. before lectures began. As I was living far from my campus, I had to take a subway train at 6 a.m. to join the prayer gathering. Moreover, I often stayed up until daybreak to write reports and to study for exams. Although my body was tired, my heart was full of joy.
Every time we gathered, we read the Bible. The following verses still remain in my mind.
“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Lk 22:31–32
To sift is to put a powder such as flour or sand through a sieve in order to remove large pieces or lumps. This expression shows that Satan shakes the faith of God’s children to prevent them from going to heaven. Since Jesus had already known that the faith of Simon Peter would be shaken by Satan’s request, He prayed for him. Then Jesus asked Peter, who would restore faith through His prayer, to take care of his brothers.
When I heard this explanation, I realized how we had been able to keep our faith despite many trials such as financial difficulties, health problems, and persecutions, which shook our faith. It’s all thanks to the love of Heavenly Mother who has prayed for the souls of Her children without ceasing.
Always remembering Mother’s love and sacrifice, I will take care of my brothers and sisters with Mother’s heart according to God’s earnest desire.