Dear Parish Family,
Prayer is not about changing God’s mind but allowing God to change us. As C.S. Lewis wisely said:
“Prayer doesn’t change God; it changes me.”
William McGill reminds us:
“The value of persistent prayer is not that God will hear us, but that we will finally hear God.”
It’s in prayer that we tune our hearts to listen to the voice of the One who loves us beyond measure. As the Psalmist says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
Jesus taught us to pray to Our Father. A loving father listens to his child but does not always grant every request. Instead, he provides what is needed, even when it’s not what we expect. Jesus assures us, “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” (Matthew 7:11)
Venerable Fulton Sheen wisely stated:
“The man who thinks only of himself says prayers of petition. He who thinks of his neighbor says prayers of intercession. He who thinks only of loving and serving God says prayers of abandonment to God’s will, and that is the prayer of the saints.”
The Our Father: The “Perfect Prayer”
St. Thomas Aquinas called it the “perfect prayer,” guiding us not only in what to ask for but in what order to desire it.
Practical Tips for Growing in Prayer
1. Start Your Day with Prayer Set aside five minutes to connect with God. “In the morning, Lord, You hear my voice.” (Psalm 5:3)
2. Pray the Our Father Slowly Reflect on each line. Let it deepen your relationship with God.
3. Pray for Others Lift up the needs of family, friends, and the world. “I urge, first of all, that prayers be made for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:1)
4. Sit in Silence Make space for God’s voice. “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
5. Offer Up Your Struggles Transform your burdens into prayer. “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Prayer isn’t about changing God’s mind, but about allowing Him to transform ours. Let us seek God’s will in all things.