Faith & Prayer

I have the privilige of hearing stories of faith and prayer nearly every day. 

For example, today a friend told a story of faith was strengthened through  a simple prayer that was answered. The prayer was for God to make God’s presence known to a loved one and to provide comfort to that person. Beyond all rationale and scientific understanding, the prayer was answered.  Mystery and certainty were embraced in the journey with God. 

Another story involved unceasing unconversation with God…even about the little things. Sometimes we don’t think we’re praying when we go about conversation with God…but I think we are. Brother Lawrence went about life with God, in the smallest of things, and called it prayer. We can too.  We can have faith in knowing God cares about all the details of our lives–just share them with God.  And don’t be surprised about some of the thoughts, or promptings, that follow.

Deeper into Prayer

A group of friends and myself have been meeting for a couple weeks on the topic of prayer. It’s interesting to hear insights that affirm some of my prayer experiences and some that are quite different. Some of us have prayed silent, simple, eloquent but comprehensive prayers from early ages.  In other words, we’ve tried to make sure God knew about all our worries and concerns…and asked for God’s help.  Most of us have gone to God in prayer early in life in times of need. 

We’re using our Pray Grow Study bulletin insert guides as the foundation for our discussions.  We’ve discussed prayers of examen, tears and relinquishment.  The guides have been helpful in reflecting on our experiences.  I think, as we grow older, the mystery that surrounds God is easier to embrace.  While we know God is faithful and God’s character is unchanging, we can come to a place where we do not have know or understand everything.  The burden of selfsuffiency can be lifted.  Not having to know and do everything on our own is a relief.  While we are responsible for many things, we can come to the self knowledge that we’re not responsible for everything and everyone.  And, that we can give things away to God through prayer. 

Life can be difficult and challenging.  In the conversation known as prayer with God, life is do-able…and can be lived with hope and joy.  In prayer that includes listening, we can move forward with God knowing we are forgiven.  We can forgive others and show compassion for the sinned against.

I’m looking foward to discussing prayers of rest and sacramental prayer this week…among other things!  More later…

Experiment in Prayer

I’ve recently joined a group of folks here at Schweitzer in a study on prayer. And, yet, it’s really not as much a study as a conversation or a relating of experiences. The foundation for the group experience is Richard Foster’s book on prayer. We’re using the daily devotionals from the Pray-Grow-Study inserts available in our weekly bulletins as our springboard for conversation.

Prayer can be paradoxical–simple yet deep. Still, shouldn’t it always be a conversation with God? Should’nt we spend as much time listening as talking?

I’m excited about this journey in prayer. I know I’m going to learn from others in the group–through their rich life experiences and wisdom. More later…