Why prayer(con.)

In my last article I talked about the power of prayer to endow the individual with wisdom by means of training the mind to focus on our Creator, and our Divine Lord Jesus Christ.

Such practices are spiritually empowering, and just as the 11 Apostles received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (At 2: 1~4): you can achieve the same peace.

 
Now, let’s not get out of context, here, and speculate that you will perform miracles. Although, in reality, a miracle will take place between your ears.

In reflection I am a bit embarrassed to admit that I did not “cover all the bases” in my previous writing.

Let’s quickly review:

(1.) You can recite any prayer from memory, childhood, or writings.

(2.) Make it a habit to pray each and everyday at a regular set time. (example; morning and/or evenings)

(3.) In addition, pray at daily common events, (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) Thanking the Lord for his provisions

When the Apostles came to Jesus and asked Him how they are to pray, He taught them the Our Father, which gives us the example that we must 1st address the Father from which all goodness flows. (Lk 11:1~13) when settlling in for our prayer time. This gospel reading further points out that we can ask for the same need on more than one occasion: so be persistent! (Lk 18: 1~8)

(4.) God knows what is on your mind, but, do not hesitate to speak to Him about it from your heart, and knowing that you cannot deceive the Lord, dig deep and express your inner feelings just as you would to a confidant, or close friend. Practice improves results.

(5.) Be humble, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” declares the LORD (Isa 55:8~9) Be mindful that what you ask for may not be the good thing you think it is:

So, I always ask the Lord, “give him, (her, or them), that which they are in the most need of receiving” (A loss may become a win!)

We can pray for anything we hold to be importance, be it personal, national, or dimensional provided it does not violate the laws of our Loving God.

(6.) Prayer can be digital: Ascension Press, Relevant Radio, EWTN,, and the Hallow App all have a broad selection of prayer need references including audio books of the saints. When we pray along with an audio program, (Mt 18: 19~20) we are joined by Our Lord Jesus.

One of my favorite prayer practices is on the Hallow App where I join Bishop Robert Baron’s recital of the Holy Rosary in which he does a deep dive into the secrets of each mystery. But do not simply listen; participate, and do not anticipate you will receive all graces by simply listening to an audio playback. You have to be a part of it. I select a private time when all is quiet, grab my Fatima rosary anjd immerse myself in the exercisee, contemplating the experience.

(7.) Another effective prayer practice is “imaginative prayer” where one will use their imagination to put themselves in a particular biblical scene or event. Many scholars categorize prayers as either “imaginative or contemplative”. Both will enable you to grow closer to our God, and this is the very essence of why we are here and why we exist

No greater love is there for thee!

May God bless you!