Rector’s Daily Reflections
Tuesday 5th March 2024
Learning More About Prayer
We have looked at a couple of ways in which we might prepare ourselves for a time of prayer. There are many other methods of preparation, and I want to look at one of these today.
For some people, it can be helpful to read a passage from the Bible. There are so many passages to choose from, and perhaps you have a favourite passage yourself. Down the centuries, many Christians have drawn spiritual strength from reading the psalms. Sometimes the words of a psalm become the words of our own prayers. On other occasions, the words and thoughts of a psalm serves more as a springboard for our own thoughts and words.
I wonder if have ever used Psalm 25 as the starting point for a time of prayer? I think it can be a great help to us as we try to settle our minds on God. The first 6 verses of the psalm read as follows:
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul; O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies triumph over me.
Let none who look to you be put to shame, but let the treacherous be shamed and frustrated.
Make me to know your ways, O Lord, and teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you have I hoped all the day long.
Remember, Lord, your compassion and love, for they are from everlasting.
Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions, but think on me in your goodness, O Lord, according to your steadfast love”.
These words provide material for a lifetime’s reflection, and they remind us that when we pray, we pray to a God of love and compassion. I wonder if any particular verse or phrase strikes you? Might you use Psalm 25 in your own prayers?