One of my children found herself back in Canada for university and was invited out to eat. “Would you like some Swiss Cheese?” she was asked. “Sure. What kind?” she replied. “You know,” said her friend, “Swiss cheese, the kind with holes. Is there another kind?”
My daughter then explained that there is actually no such thing as “Swiss cheese” since there are over 450 different varieties of cheese made in Switzerland. Not all of them have holes, either. So if you are going to serve cheese from Switzerland, you better be prepared to be more specific about exactly what kind of cheese it is.
The reason they have so many kinds of cheese is because they have had so many years to invent new ones. Tomorrow, the Helvetic Confederation (aka Switzerland) celebrates its 728th birthday. There is much to celebrate: for a small country, it has held onto its independence and unique culture for a long time.
I’m grateful to live in this rich and abundant country with all its beauty. When it comes to the August 1st holiday, I remember to pray for this place and the people. Every nation needs prayer and this provides a good occasion to remember Switzerland.
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Wherever you find yourself tomorrow, please join me tomorrow in praying for the nation of Switzerland:
- Pray that God would move afresh and reveal himself to a new generation that does not know him.
- Pray that God would establish and use strong churches to reach people on his behalf.
- Pray for openness to share God’s message with those we meet each day.
Tonight in Basel, there will be a brilliant display of fireworks. Tomorrow, let’s cover the city with our prayers.