I’m not talking about the type of meditation where you sit on the floor with your legs crossed and fingers pinched into an okay sign. I’m talking about mediation where you try to hone your spirit to be more receptive to God’s words through the Holy Spirit. We call it praying but seldom analyze the process because it almost becomes second nature for Christians. It’s a quick, “Thank you; Forgive me for this and that; Bless this list of people I care for” - instant message (Post-It for the older folks) we send to God. We pile on these messages and log off with an “Amen”.
Any pre-teen knows that you can’t get messages if you log off during a chat session. Yet, we do it all the time. Just as God is about to reply to our message, we’re no longer logged in and moving on with our lives.
So… with our daily lives moving so fast, when do we have time to take a breather and pray? Are there times when Sunday is fast approaching and you realize you haven’t prayed in a few days? Or you can’t remember the last time you really had an honest “conversation” with God?
I figured I start by sharing my time-out moments in hopes to offer a few suggestions and also for those who read this, to solicit your opinions.
First would be the obvious “before your meal” prayer. But seriously… that’s no better than a “thanks for the grub” pep-talk. Doesn’t count unless you’re praying with a group or you get really inspired and actually cover all the bases.
Second, (another obvious one) would be in bed, before sleeping. But this one is also highly inconsistent because there are many nights when you simply pass out – without a though. Not to mention, the prayer will sometimes turn into a lullaby and you fall asleep in the middle of prayer. This prayer only works with the traditional, kneel on the side of your bed and hands folded method. Otherwise, you’re only kidding yourself if you say you’re going to having a meaningful prayer before bed. I mean think about that phrase, “prayer before bed”. It’s a time you spend “before” you get into bed. So, if you want this to work, you have to get out of the covers and off the bed.
Third, (personal favorite) is on the can. Yeah… when you’re dropping Mr. 2. I don’t know about you, but when it’s time for me to sit on the throne, I SIT. I don’t meditate all the time, but there are times when I’m deep in thought way beyond having taken care of business. I won’t go into too much detail, but give it a try next time you’re there for an extended stay. I can get all biological and explain how you’ll have more energy for thought once you’ve made a purge, but I’m sure you’ve felt that sensation when you’re head magically clears up after a serious expunging. At least it’s an activity you do on a consistent basis that could lead to a very productive habit.
Fourth and fifth are still in the restroom, but cleaner. Try praying while running the shower over your head for a minute or two. It’s very relaxing. Not to mention, metaphorically cleansing. Then come out and finish the thought while brushing your teeth. It’s process that’s probably second nature, thus a perfect opportunity to invest some brain power to organizing a few convictions (unless you count your brush strokes).
Sixth is when you’re in the car or any transportation. Works better if you’re traveling alone or your fellow traveller turns on the radio and you have your thoughts to yourself. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to check if you got any messages from “God:”.
These are habits I’ve tried to instill in my life, but the prayers that have had the most effect in my life are the prayers of others. My parents, pastors, spiritual leaders, friends and family. Without their prayers, I would not have been able to reap all of God’s awesome grace in my life. Share your prayers with those you trust and believe there are always someone praying for you.
