Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Today’s Scripture Reading  |  Mark 1:35–39
In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. And Simon and his companions hunted for him. When they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is searching for you.” He answered, “Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.” And he went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons. (NRSV)

Reflection
When I was given this passage, my first reaction is that I am not that good at prayer. My mind tends to wander and latch onto those issues that capture my attention. After deliberating on this passage and what my pastor has been leading me to over the last couple of years, I came to the conclusion that prayer is for those things at the top of my mind.

So, I have tried to specifically engage in prayer around the important and immediate issues in my life. What should I do? How should I do it?

It seems to be working, bringing both guidance and peace. I now look at prayer and action as essentially linked. They seem to me to be paired, with prayer giving me the confidence, and sometimes courage, to do what I need to do. My actions seem to be logical and necessary extensions of my prayers.

Prayer
Dear Lord, I thank you for the blessing of your love and guiding spirit in my life. Help me to continue to accept your unconditional love and guidance. Amen.

Written by Blake Anderson, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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