Ash Wednesday -- February 22, 2012

Matthew 6:6 - 8a

When you pray, go into a room alone and close the door. Pray to your Father in private. He knows what is done in private, and he will reward you.

When you pray, don't talk on and on as people do who don't know God. They think God likes to hear long prayers. Don't be like them.


Lent begins with Jesus' guidance on prayer (in Matthew 6, Jesus also includes "giving alms" and "fasting").

Since the foundation of prayer is relationship, there is no good template for how to do it. Plans and outlines for what to say and how to do it can come across as hollow. In a sense, we all find our own way into the unique relationship we have with God.

How is one to stay alive and loving in a significant relationship? Does intimacy happen in public? Do long sentences and flowery words grow a relationship?

The most significant prayer is not public discourse. Prayer is inhaling a few minutes of stillness. It is a whispered plea. It is the quiet weeping of brokenness. It is the private broken heart that holds the pain of a loved one in God's tender gaze.

Spend time today in a quiet place. Intend to pray there. Don't try to force any words. Sit in a favorite chair or take a quiet walk. Don't force any words. Don't script a speech. You don't have to manufacture a feeling. Simply be aware that God is present -- God is present there because God is present everywhere! -- with you.

If words arise, fine. If not, just be with God. Spend 10 - 15 minutes that way. Your intention to be present to God, and your attentiveness to God for those few minutes may be the greatest prayer you can pray.







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