“Prayer is the beginning and the end, the source and the fruit, the core and the content, the basis and the goal of all peacemaking.” ~ Henri Nouwen
There are many people who lament about the fact that our world is in desperate shape. They feel as if there is nothing that they can do to help. All the while, they have within themselves the greatest means for peace: prayer.
For some reason, we have it ingrained in us that we have to be a people of action. We have to “get things done”. If we are not doing, we feel something is wrong. When we cannot do, we feel powerless. However, we do not — we can not — always act. But, we can always pray.
Prayer helps to focus us. It helps to center us. It helps us to remember that we are not the ones in charge and that we need to rely upon God for some of the much bigger matters in life.
Peace is possible. However, it will only come about when we all turn to God in prayer and ask for it. Then, in prayer, God will speak to us and let us know what we need to do and the kind of people we need to be. From that prayer will flow the proper action needed.
The action might be something as simple as helping someone in need. It might be forgiving someone against whom we have held a grudge. Whatever it takes, God will enlighten us if we open ourselves up to Him.
Remember, that is the primary component of prayer: communication with God. Communication implies a give and take. It implies speaking and listening. If we attune ourselves to God’s voice, we will hear what needs to be accomplished.
Begin to build peace in the world today. Begin by working on your prayer life. Prayer is always the best way to begin.
FAITH ACTION: Pray for peace. Pray for peacemakers. Pray that you may be at peace with yourself.