“First make requests (list specific needs), prayers (bring others before the throne of God), intercession, (make appeals on behalf of others), and thanksgiving for all people—(even) for kings and all those in authority.” – 1 Timothy 2

We be charged with praying fer all folks at all times, even lubbers. Even that scoundrel Woodes Rogers, tha first Royal Governor of the Bahamas and tha one who hunts down our brethren. Even them commodores of tha British Royal Navy who blasts our vessels ter Davy Jones. Even tha Queen, may she rot in. . . (Oops. Old hateful habits be hard to change.) Our orders be ter pray fer her, too.

We be charged ter make requests during all watches, even tha dog watch, and give thanks fer crew at all times. I know, I know, this be a tall order, but thems tha commands of our skipper. Why, says you?

“Do this that we may live peaceful, quiet lives in all godliness (God likeness) and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior.” 1 Timothy 2

Skipper wants all men, lubbers included, ter be saved. Not some. Not only them that we like. Not only them we love. (Here I be thinking on tha misses I left back in port and them youngins I fathered.) When we live without rancor, keep our tongue and sword sheathed, and reflect Skipper’s character, he be pleased.

Skipper has it in mind fer ALL men and women ter be saved. Skipper wants ALL brethren and sistren ter come to a knowledge of tha truth, of tha Code of Conduct.

And what be truth, says you? Well, first off, there be but one Skipper, one in charge. Second, there be but one mediator, one arbitrator, betwixt Skipper and us. That mediator be tha Son. Says so right thar in tha letter to young Timothy.

“Christ gave himself as a ransom for all people.” – 1 Timothy 6

Tha Son who calls himself Christ Jesus bought ever one. He paid our fair, so ter speak. Any grievance Skipper gots with us, any trouble we caused, any property we destroyed, any fellers we killed, any charges that be laid again’ us, the Son paid our tab in order fer us to walk free.

And he paid not jest fer you and me but fer all. It be fer this purpose that we be obligated ter tell folks–even lubbers–and ter publish this news in handbills and such.

So thar it be. Pray fer all folks at all times in all ways, no matter tha waves they make fer ya. Do this, mate, and Skipper ‘ill have no reason ter call ya to his cabin.

1 Timothy 2:1-6