Prayer is like a phone call. It is personal, requires a "do not disturb" sign and active participation on your part. Merely going to church every Sunday is more like a text message; requires a minimum of effort on your part, not personal and full of distractions.
How to pray. I am still exploring. Yes, there is the rosary or prayer beads, and prayer books like a breviary. I find the rosary helps me to center myself. It is similar to putting yourself into a state of calm. Clears the mind and prepares one for a longer session with God.
Then comes the hard part. The actual communications bit. Honestly this is where I fall apart. I stumble. What do I say? How do I, well, how do I pray? I'm left in a state of confusion as I don't believe that prayer is a medium to ask God for earthly things. Like money. A new car. A better house.
I guess there are those that do pray for things like that. I don't desire any more than what I already have. Yes, a new car would be nice - however my van works and only costs for maintenance, fuel and insurance. A bigger house, but the one I live in now is plenty as I don't have children living with me. Yes, a bit more folding money would be nice, but money for me is similar to a 19830's famous movie.
Clark Cable
Vivian Lee
In my quest to understand prayer I spoke to my sister who is a Pesbyterian minister. I said to her "after I say my ritual prayers, I am left feeling empty. Wanting more. Can you recommend any prayer books?"
At first, her answer was vague, uninformative. After I chewed over her words in my mind, I realized this wasn't so. She wasn't vague or uninformative. I just wasn't listening. I have already formulated her 'correct' response in my mind and it didn't agree with her words.
Prayer is NOT a formula! Yes, the rosary and other forms of prayer beads ARE ritual, structured prayer mediums, but prayer is no different than a communications with you and God. Like when you talk to your sister.
HE may not be vocal but God does speak to us. If you doubt this, try this 'test'.
Say the sign of the cross.
Dear Lord/God/Jesus
I really blew it today. I got upset with
I can guarantee that He will be listening and will give you an answer. Sit back. Reflect on what you said, how you said it. This is where God steps in and provides you with your answer. "Treat others as you would like to be treated", or maybe its more of a moral problem. The 10 Commandments will rule your thoughts.
See? God may not smite thee with a burning bush, or a lightning bolt or a sudden increase in money, but He gives you what you need - a shove, a push to get you on your way. One might say God says "Really?! Hey! I've already told you people how to conduct yourself in this matter. I even had it written down in stone. LOL
Pray. Pray often.
Ed May the peace of our Lord dwell within you.
