Prayer

Encountering Christ Jesus as our lasting “Prince of Peace” gives us a place to take our grief, anxiety, and fear, so that we, in turn, can become people who exude the generosity and gentleness of God.

Data shows that wonder is powerful. It can improve our sense of self, make us more kind and wise, and infuse us with purpose. Where do we find it? Curiously, wonder is one of the refreshing characteristics of the church in its earliest days. Reflecting on an encounter early followers of Jesus had with a disabled man, we’ll consider where wonder can be found and how we cultivate it in our daily life.

It’s understandable that today many have jaded views of the church. As we imagine the future of our church, what can we learn from the earliest days of the church? It was refreshingly dynamic, characterized by personal transformation, vital community, authentic spirituality, radical generosity, and contagious hospitality.

Jesus tells his disciples the story of the persistent widow to encourage them “to always pray and not give up.” We are not always told the meaning of one of Jesus’s teachings so clearly; yet even in its clearest, simplest form, this teaching can be difficult to follow. Many obstacles attempt to deter us from persistent prayer. Ultimately, Jesus’s encouragement “to always pray and not give up” is an invitation to abide in God’s presence. Unlike the unjust judge, the Lord hears our prayers in love, and His faithfulness sustains us through all the injustice we suffer on Earth.

Jesus uses the parable of the friend at night to teach about prayer. Understanding prayer, as well as who we’re praying to, is critical for anyone who wants to engage with an invisible God that often feels like a great mystery.

Healthy relationships are key to building a great life. So how do we deal with the pain often experienced there? What role is forgiveness supposed to play? How do we do that authentically when it’s especially difficult for us?