THE DAY OF WONDER AND GRACE

From our correspondent in HK for Global Day of Prayer(GDOP)

The Global Day of Prayer in HK was a truly amazing event as the Hong Kong Stadium and Hong Kong Coliseum were both filled with Christians from all walks of life praying and praising God in unity.

The day started beautifully with splendid weather. It had been raining the whole week before the event with thunderstorms, strong winds and lightning but on the day, the skies were beautifully blue and the sun shone brightly. The crowd in the outdoor Hong Kong Stadium marveled at the wonderful weather.

The event started with a lively dance and a spectacular flag parade. As the flag bearers entered the stadium each bearing a flag of a different nation of the world, the crowd erupted into applause and were also moved to tears as Hong Kong was reminded that they were joining the 200 million believers from around the world in prayer.

With the blowing of the shofars and the proclamation of Psalm 24, the event continued with the worship team and 1000-member choir leading the crowds in joyful worship.

The prayers for the world were first lifted up to the Lord as government officials and pastors prayed for the different nations. They prayed for world peace, protection from natural disasters, and unity in families of people around the world. At this time, the crowds also prayed for China, the motherland of Hong Kong. The crowd in the stadium was asked to all stand and face north, the direction of China, and to lift their hands to pray blessing upon China.

The crowd was then led into prayer for Hong Kong. Representatives of the government, business sector, schools, youths, and new immigrants all came together and led the crowds to pray for God's blessing upon each area of society.

Nearing the end of the event, the churches in Hong Kong were prayed for; giving thanks to the Lord for them and asking His blessing upon them. There was also a call of unity as pastoral staff were asked to come together to declare that they belong, not to a certain church or denomination, but that they belong to and serve the Church of Hong Kong. It was deeply moving to see over three hundred pastoral staff gather by the stage, holding hands and singing the 'Song of Unity' so as show their commitment to unity in serving Hong Kong.

The event closed with a blessing and the exuberant song of praise 'Stand up for Jesus'. The crowds then left the stadium full of joy having seen the glory of God and knowing that they were a part of the largest prayer meeting in world history.