I remember a message given to me decades ago. Growing up in a family atmosphere of alcoholism and mental illness, I would sometimes complain about my “hard life” to my mother’s friend, a sister of the Holy Names. In those days we didn’t have email. I wrote my complaints in letters to her and each time she would reply, not with advice but with these words: “Pray! Always pray!”
Not too long ago, a local pastor gave a message in Russian on navigating the pitfalls, temptations, and trials of life. Though I only understood about 10% or less, of what he said, his main point was clear: Всегда, всегда молитесь! “Always, always pray!” This simple and direct word is something I can carry into my everyday life, day by day, moment by moment.
“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-17
Now “Always pray!” rings in my ears and in my heart whenever I encounter countless obstacles, my own weaknesses, and indecision which seem to be unending, blocking my way forward or robbing me of peace.
Lord, I thank you for the saints you have put in my life that remind me to pray. Thank you that You hear every prayer that comes from my heart, no matter how passionate or feeble. Amen.
“Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out” (Ephesians 6:18, The Message).
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