Prayer

This week at church, we're going to talk about prayer - what it is, and how we should pray.  And I'll admit, at times the topic of prayer gives me the "doe in the headlights" stare.  Meaning, sometimes I think I'm doing okay with prayer, and other times...well... not so good.  There are moments when the words flow without thought; they are natural, and authentic.  I also have moments of "prayer block."  What comes out is clunky, cold, and shallow.  Not that I ever want the words from deep within my soul to be clunky, cold, or shallow.  But that is what they are sometimes.  Even when my intentions are pure, and I am trying to shoulder someone else's grief or burdens by offering words to our Creator, sometimes the words get stuck.

So what is prayer?  Why do we pray?  What should we pray?  How do we pray?  Yes, prayer is something we do, but I've learned along my journey that prayer is more a way of life.  Something as simple as acknowledging my neighbors with a smile, a hello, or that man-head-bob that says, "'Sup?"  - that's prayer.  Prayer brings us into a sacred time and space, no matter where we are, and links us to God and each other in ways beyond mere words.  And as we go about our daily lives and interact with one another, there are numerous opportunities to be the answers to others' prayers.  Sharing space and time, a meal, a laugh, a hug, a caring hand of help, a voice for those who are overlooked, a moment of silence to listen for God's still, small voice - all this allows us to enter into prayer.  Time with God, and with others.

Jesus gives us insight about prayer when he's giving the Sermon on the Mount.  He says we shouldn't be showy and don't need to use big words and antics to get God's (or people's) attention.  He says we should go into a private space and give God our complete attention.  When we talk to God in prayer, first we acknowledge God - whoever God is for us.  Then, we confess whatever's on our hearts and mind - things where we feel we've fallen short.  Then, offer God thanks for all our daily provisions.  After all this, we bring our requests to God for others and ourselves.  It's simple in format, but as with anything meaningful, it takes a commitment of practice.

So here's to practicing today's prayers - in their countless shapes and forms.  Spoken.  Unspoken.  Doing.  Giving.  Love.  Dessert.  Forgiveness.  May our Creator inspire us, challenge us, and remind us who and whose we are today through prayer.