Prayer at Resurrection

We are often so busy that it is hard for us to take time out to connect with God. When we finally do have the chance to take a break in the midst of our busy days, we often feel guilty if we aren’t doing something “productive.” Edward Hays, author of “Pray All Ways,” recognizes this human ailment and prescribes for us what he calls the “prayer of napping.” We see Jesus practicing this prayer while in a boat during a windstorm in Mark 4:38. Resting in the midst of a storm seems difficult, at best, and yet Jesus models this for us as a way of remaining faithful and remembering that God is in control. When his disciples wake him in fear during the storm, he asks them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” (Mk 4:40). Storms will always be a part of life; usually they are when we need time with God the most. , As we are going through our own storms (in the work place, in our relationships or elsewhere), are we taking time for spiritual rest, as Jesus modeled for us? This could be a 10-minute walk outside during a busy day at the office, or closing your eyes for 30 minutes when you put your children down for a nap. When we take a break from the chaos of life, we are acknowledging that God is in control and that everything will be just fine if we check out briefly to gain some rest and rejuvenate our souls. I hope that you can take time to pray in the form of a break from the chaos to experience the peace of Christ throughout your busy days.
–Rev. Michael Maroon, Pastor of Prayer Ministries