Recycling Prayers
JoAnn Condit of Phoenix, AZ, USA
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings should be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. -1 Timothy 2:1-2
As the years fly by, I feel as though funerals and memorial services come more rapidly. I am always struck by the beauty and artistry of the bulletins and prayer cards printed for the services, with photographs, flowers, and beautifully decorated poems and prayers.
When a service is over, we pay our respects and often shed tears for the loss we feel. We arrive home with the service bulletin and prayer cards in our pockets or purses. What do we do with them? It is not possible to keep all these mementos, and there is no practical need. We have the memories of that person etched on our hearts. Still…are we simply to toss them in the recycling bin?
I have found a solution for the slender prayer or inspirational cards, often decorated with flowers and butterflies. I put them in the top drawer of my bedside table, where they join dozens of other bookmarks. Each time I pick up a new book, it receives a fresh bookmark. When I finish the book, the bookmark takes its place at the bottom of the stack.
I read many books over the course of a year. I find great joy in remembering anew, with each bookmark, the friend, relative, or acquaintance who touched and enriched my life. It reminds me to pray for their families. My heart is made whole again and again. The peace of Christ comforts me.
Prayer Phrase
“Attention is the beginning of devotion” (Mary Oliver).
Spiritual Practice
Holy Attention
Engaging in the practice of holy attention allows us to suspend our inner conversations and agendas and give reverent and receptive focus to a specific person or portion of God’s creation. Regarding another as an unrepeatable miracle whose life journey is unique and sacred brings awareness to and affirmation of God’s presence in all creation. We do this in the spirit of Christ who saw into the deep hearts of people and recognized their true identities as God’s beloved. Spend time this day in prayerful attention to God’s creation, to the people in your life, and to your daily surroundings.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
