Every night as we get into bed, Jen and I turn to each other and say, “Let’s pray.” We try to pray every night. Remembering the blessings from the day, lifting up people and situations to God and asking for guidance and help for the next day.
Unfortunately, in our modern society prayer is often overlooked by many as boring, archaic and not effective. We think news, YouTube videos and a new cell phone will be better to solve our problems sometimes.
Deep down though, we know we need something more.
Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, spent hours in prayer. He taught his disciples how to pray and all the people he met prayed and praised God. Prayer has been a central act of faith for thousands of years. How can we take prayer more seriously?
Actually prayer is booming today under another name.
“Mindfulness” and “meditation” are quickly gaining lots of popularity for their health benefits such as decreased stress, positive attitude, healthier relationships, and healthier body. Yet, this new-age adaption of prayer is not really new at all. It is science catching up to what Jesus already knew: our minds and bodies are built for prayer.
Taking five minutes to sit quietly, and focus on our breathing clears distractions, helps us focus, and opens our minds to God’s leadings.
Scientific research proved that food actually tastes better if we pray before we eat it, our minds are better adept at critical thinking if we pray before trying to solve a problem, and we can understand others better if we pray before we have discussions.
Mindfulness may be the open doorway to God, but Christian prayer is the real connection that goes through the door directly to God. God is the one who hears, speaks, gives and loves. For those who pray, they speak to God, hear God’s voice, receive God’s grace, and feel God’s love.
Next time you are tired, stressed, or feeling lost, PRAY!
Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and be amazed at what God will do!
Align your body, mind and spirit with the divine center of the universe made available to us by the great, loving work of Jesus Christ.
In his name we pray. Amen!