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Monday, February 19, 2024 Learning To Pray Scripture: Ephesians 6:18 (NRSV) – “Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.” Message: Although I attended church with my family when I was young, prayer had never been part of my life. I thought the pastors were the only designees who could pray correctly, with their necessary eloquent words. Unfortunately, I thought all those “Good things” that happened in my life and family were merely coincidences. I really didn’t know how to pray, and I lacked the confidence to say the right words. Wow, how naïve I was back then. Many years later I realized how selfish this life style was. I learned that prayer wasn’t about using liturgical words. I was over-thinking it. I didn’t need to read about it, just do it! An awkward prayer is certainly better than none at all. Praying out loud was something I didn’t think I could ever do. Now it is a major component of my faith and daily life. I don’t know if there is a “proper” way to pray. What I do know that works well for me; just having a conversation with God, being specific and always giving thanks for His presence in my life. Along with Fasting and Almsgiving, Prayer is one of the three traditional pillars of the Lenten season. Although all three are vital, Prayer is the cornerstone of our Lenten journey and is vital to all of our actions in life. God isn’t interested in where and how we do it. He just wants us to do it from our heart with true conviction. And guess what, I found it works! Prayer: Dear Lord and Heavenly Father, transform me during this Lenten season, giving me strength to commit myself to grow closer to You each day. Let my prayers be filled with encouragement for others, nourishment through You to fulfill our Lenten season promises to You, and to sustain our Lenten promises throughout the year. Amen. Jim McElhose |
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