God in Times of Sorrow

(Jesus) also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted. ~ Luke 18:9-14


One must not think that a person who is suffering is not praying. He is offering up his sufferings to God, and many a time he is praying much more truly than one who goes away by himself and meditates his head off, and, if he has squeezed out a few tears, thinks that is prayer. ~ Teresa of Avila


What are your prayers like these days?

 Most of us are suffering now, to varying degrees. Some more than others, but none of us are untouched. Loss is all around us.

 Loss of companionship, loss of job, loss of health, loss of certainty.

 Maybe at times you are finding it hard to get on your knees, or sit quietly and say the words you expect God wants to hear. 

 Maybe you can't always remember the litany of names you promised to pray for.

 Maybe sitting and meditating to de-stress doesn't feel complete to you.

 But has there been a moment in the past weeks, past month, where you have simply whispered "help" in your darkened room as you go to sleep at night?

 Are there times when taking a shuddering breath you have cried out "Lord, have mercy?"

 Have their been times you've wanted to shake your fist at God and say, "Why?"

 Or brought your arms around yourself in a hug and uttered weakly, "I'm scared?"

 Know that God hears those prayers. Know that those ARE prayers.

 Do not beat yourself up if the things you normally practice for your prayer life ring hollow to you right now.

 Simply call out with whatever you are feeling or holding onto, and know that you are heard.

 And you are loved.
Prayer: Lord have mercy. Help. Why? I'm scared! Amen

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