In March of 1987, President Ronald Reagan designated March to raise awareness and support for people with developmental disabilities. Each year in March, three national organizations—the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), and the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)—join forces through a campaign to highlight the ways the developmentally disabled unite with other people in society to form strong communities (www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/press/march-is-developmental-disabilities-awareness-month/).
In honor of this month, I offer the following support for all people with disabilities:
SCRIPTURES OF ENCOURAGEMENT:
Like all other mankind, they are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27, New King James Version).
Like all other mankind, they are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14, New King James Version).
The Lord God has chosen them to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all on the face of the earth (Deuteronomy 7:6 and 14:2, New King James Version).
INTERCESSORY PRAYER:
Dear God, our Heavenly Father,
As America continues to observe President Ronald Reagan’s designation of National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we ask that You will guide us with Your wisdom, knowledge, and Spirit. Help us caregivers, educators, and families in America work alongside the AUCD, NACDD, and NDRN to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, just as Proverbs 31:8 in the New Living Translation exhorts. Help us advocate against the discrimination and prejudice the developmentally disabled face, ensuring they have equal opportunities in education, employment, healthcare, and transportation.
We ask that You provide them with the daily guidance, teaching, and training they need to overcome their challenges and lead successful lives.
May Your glory shine upon the developmentally disabled in America as we support them this month! In Jesus’ name. Amen—Kenneth Sullivan.