prayers of the people

as part of the prayers of the people, form one in the book of common prayer, the congregation petitions for "the aged and infirm, for the widowed and orphans, and for the sick and suffering" (book of common prayer, 384). this morning during the prayer, i was especially reminded of my friend greg's father, john thornbury. john thornbury had emergency bypass surgery late this week to clear six blockages. the last news that was forwarded along from greg was that his father was recovering from the operation. mr. thornbury has pastored the same church in winfield, pennsylvania for the past forty-plus years. he has written several wonderful biographies published by evangelical press, including god sent revival: the story of asahel nettleton and the second great awakening , david brainerd: pioneer missionary to the american indians, and a pastor in new york: the life and times of spencer cone. several of my closest friends count john thornbury as a model of the pastor-teacher. as he and his family labor and pray for his strength and encouragement, the response in the liturgy is very appropriate: "Lord, have mercy."