Prayer Tip--Through the Valley of the Shadow
Daily Scripture
Psalm 34:18 (CEB) and John 11:32-35 (CEB)
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he saves those whose spirits are crushed.
When Mary arrived where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.” When Jesus saw her crying and the Jews who had come with her crying also, he was deeply disturbed and troubled. He asked, “Where have you laid him?” They replied, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus began to cry.
Daily Reflection & Prayer
How did it get to be March already?????
A lot of us are experiencing a high level of stress right now. The GPS this week will offer wonderful reminders of God’s constant love and grace. Prayer is a way to connect with that love and grace. I came across this poem, by Mary Oliver, that has reminded me this week that prayer does not have to be complicated or elaborate–and that it should always involve listening.
It doesn’t have to be
the blue iris, it could be
weeds in a vacant lot, or a few
small stones. Just
pay attention, then patch
a few words together and don’t try
to make them elaborate, this isn’t
a contest but a doorway
into thanks, and a silence in which
another voice may speak. *
Prayer
Lord, when I am stressed and worried, and my heart and mind don’t have the words, help me remember that prayer is not a contest or a search for the perfect word. Let me see it as that doorway to thanks, and a chance to hear your voice. Amen.
GPS Insights
Jennifer Creagar
This week's Prayer Tip is by Jennifer Creagar who serves as the Community Assistance Coordination Director in Resurrection's Congregational Care Ministry. She is married and loves spending time with her family, and she enjoys writing and photography.
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Scripture quotations are taken from The Common English Bible ©2011. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
References
* Thirst, Poems by Mary Oliver, Copyright October 15, 2006 by Beacon Press
