Prayer is your lifeline

"In the morning, while it was still very dark, he (Jesus) got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed." Mark 1:35

     From the very beginning of his public ministry, Jesus clearly understood and valued the power of prayer in his life. Because he prayed greatly, he lived and died with greatness. He was a man on a clearly defined mission and lived accordingly.

     Prayer was his lifeline and no matter how busy his schedule, he intentionally sought out quiet places to pray and think, before numerous people would clamor for his attention. Through prayer, Jesus experienced powerful moments of soul care. The power of prayer nourished his soul, helping him listen to his life, while empowering him day by day for the tasks demanded by his strenuous schedule.

     While we do not know the content of most of the prayers uttered by Jesus, we do know that his prayer life and habits can empower and energize our own lives.

     Just think about the power of prayer. We can pray for justice, for our soul mates, children, neighbors and families. Through the example of Jesus, we can dare to pray for our enemies and those who even oppress and persecute us. One wise teacher has called prayer "political action and social energy." Prayer deepens our spiritual orientation and is good for our souls. Prayer changes things, beginning with the person who prays.

     As a minister I am approached periodically from very busy people who attempt to do too much. They are frequently stressed and exhausted, and complain of being too busy to pray. I often refer them to the examples of Jesus found throughout the gospels.

     Jesus was a very busy man, but never too busy to pray. He realized prayer was his lifeline and was willing to rise early for a quiet time with his beloved heavenly Parent God. Early morning prayer nourished his soul and strengthened him for each day's labors and difficulties. Because he prayed, Jesus enjoyed a remarkable power source that followed him twenty-four hours a day.

     Let prayer become your lifeline. Seek quiet places to relax with God. Prepare to meet with God by slowing your breathing and listening to your heartbeat. Slow down for a few minutes and enjoy holy presence, if even for thirty seconds or two minutes a day. Words may not even be necessary. Just breathe. You will be amazed how empowering such holy moments can be. God is eager to meet with you, and provide you with strength for the day.

     Prayer: Slow me down, God. Help me find quiet moments to rest and relax in your loving, holy presence. Lead and guide me, protect those I love, and bring healing throughout Zimbabwe. O God, be my lifeline. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
September 16, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute this reflection throughout Zimbabwe.