Our hymnals are filled with powerful prayers.
A hymn read rather than sung can take on deep meaning that is missed when a casual singer is trying to follow both notes, rhythm and lyrics.
A prayer that is spoken every week or repeatedly during a particular season may begin to seem less powerful. Its meaning may be muted simply because of it familiarity.
Recently I have been in groups where fervent prayer has been a significant part of the gathering -- where prayer has been more than the obligatory "devotion" time. I have seen it in committee and task force meetings, as well as church council meetings.
We are aware that we are in a time of change...of movement...and much of what we have known in the past as a society and as the people of God is being held in the forefront of study, debate, dialogue and in many cases, decision making.
I turn regularly to the following prayer in the Evening Prayer Worship Service (p. 317, Evangelical Lutheran Worship).
”O God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with Good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Take some time to reflect upon the following questions.... they may "open up" this prayer and reveal deeper and more powerful meaning to where and how you are these days.
o Where do you fit in this prayer?
o What are the ventures to which God may be calling you?
o Do unknown paths frighten or excite you?
o Do you sense God’s presence more in times of uncertainty or in times that are calm and stable?
o What is encouraging about this prayer?
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