A Call to Prayer on the 76th Republic Day of India

January 26, 2025

Dear Friends,

On behalf of the Evangelical Fellowship of India, I extend warm greetings as we commemorate India’s 76th Republic Day. We pause to thank God for His faithfulness to our nation and to seek His continued guidance for our future.

Our Constitution’s vision of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity resonates deeply with our Christian calling to be salt and light in society. As we mark this significant milestone, we recognize both our achievements and challenges.

Our nation faces growing economic disparities, environmental degradation, social polarization, and erosion of constitutional values. These challenges call us to renewed prayer and action. Yet we also celebrate the resilience of our democracy, and the strength found in our diversity.

Let us pray for:

Leadership and Service:

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

– For wisdom, integrity and upholding of constitutional values by our leaders

– For the protection and dedicated service of our armed forces

– For wisdom and compassionate service from civil servants

– For justice, truth and moral strength in our courts and legal system

National Unity and Healing:

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)

– For preserving our democratic traditions and plural heritage

– For resistance against forces that breed hatred and division

– For healing of communal wounds and social harmony

– For protection of minority rights and religious freedom

Justice and Development:

“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed” (Isaiah 1:17)

– For equitable development reaching the marginalized

– For effective action against corruption and exploitation

– For fair distribution of resources and opportunities

– For environmental stewardship and sustainable progress

Our Christian Witness:

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16)

– Through continued service in education, healthcare, and social development

– By fostering communal harmony and national integration

– In standing with the poor, marginalized, and oppressed

– Through ethical leadership in all spheres of life

We draw strength from God’s promise: “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Let us continue serving our beloved country with love, building bridges of understanding, and being instruments of peace and justice.

With prayers for our nation,

Rev. Vijayesh Lal

General Secretary