Prayer

If the reading of Scripture is the foundation for who we are as Christians then prayer in the very lifeblood of our lives of faith. Prayer is our opportunity to connect with the divine in an intimate personal way. It provides us a way of communicating directly with a God who desires to be in a relationship with us.

The Apostle Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 that we are to “pray continually”. While this may seem like a daunting task – it is possible to develop an attitude of prayer that allows one to communicate on a continually basis.

Perhaps what first needs to occur as a simple acceptance that there is no correct form, posture or manner in which we are required to pray. Jesus offers His disciples an example of Prayer with the Lords Prayer, but this should not be seen as the only form or manner in which we can pray.

A very simple practice that an help you in beginning a life of prayer comes from the Eastern Orthodox monasteries in the 18th century. The Jesus Prayer was seen as a way to assist people to pray continuously. The practice itself was very simple: sit comfortable in a quiet place, begin to pray in time with your breathing.

As you breathe in pray: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God;” as you breathe out: “have mercy on me, a
sinner.” Your goal is to focus on the meaning of the words, praying them from your heart. Offering this prayer to the Lord over and over again for a period help to keep ourselves centered in Christ and our need for his mercy.

Take a risk this week, find a quiet place and give it a try. Remember in the end you are not trying to be perfect “pray-ers” – just someone who prays!