In the contemplative traditions, prayer is usually considered necessarily private (Matt. 6:6), and internally spirit-centered (Rom. 8:26). I don’t often quite bible verses at people, but John 14:19-20 is also interesting: “Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.” This is a bigger conversation than I’m interested in embarking on, but I suggest this represents our invitation into the mystical union of the Trinity (Father, Son, Spirit). Christ is “in” the Father, as we are “in” Him, and He “in” us. When I pray then, I’m really just communing with the cosmic Christ who already exists in me, and I in Him. Spiritual posturing about powerful prayers and miraculous responses from God can makes us average folk feel so illegitimate, so lacking spiritually in comparison. But, that all seems kind of silly if prayer is really just this simple. Prayer is just resting in the presence of Christ, and you don’t even have to go anywhere…He’s already here. And like any comfortable, intimate relationship, some conversation inevitably happens. This is where I’ll make my point today…how do we then pray?
If we “get” this simple idea of prayer, available to anyone…not requiring any public speaking skills or super-spiritual holiness…then the thinking and talking part of prayer can come easily, with a little direction provided by Jesus. The Lord’s Prayer, recited in Alcoholics Anonymous recovery meetings and liturgical churches around the world, is the simplest, most direct path to prayer available. It also possesses a depth to keep the most mystical of prayer practitioners among us challenged for a lifetime.
Take it one line at a time…sit on it, ruminate on each word, give each word as an offering, receive what there is to receive. A mentor started me on writing my own versions of the prayer…and I suggest the same for you. Pray this prayer every day, and if your prayer consists of only this…rest assured, you’re following the trail broken by Christ Himself on your behalf. He is with you, and you are with Him. It’s simple.
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil,
for thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
forever and ever,
Amen
Recent Comments