Zig Zag Prayer

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1Thessalonians 5:16 (NIV)

“I don’t know how to do that,” four year old Louis announced to the Sunday school class when it was his turn in the prayer circle.

“Well Louis,” Mark, the teacher, replied, “praying is just talking to God.” 

Mark reminded Louis about the picture the child had created early in the class session. Louis had sketched his family and across the page he had drawn a zig zag line.

“Remember what you told me Louis? You said that line was you telling God thank you for your mom and dad. Praying out loud is like that. It’s just you talking to God.”

Louis was ready to take his turn to prayer. He bowed his head and in a voice that was that of a confident four year old boy,” he said, “God, I don’t know how to do this so I’m just talking.”

Years have passed since Mark experienced that sweet encounter with innocence and faith. When someone shares about an illness or one of life’s other problems, Mark is always willing to pray for that concern. However, remembering Louis he will also share with the person that they can pray themselves. After all, it’s just like talking.

It is the intent of our maker that we share our lives with Him. He would have us speak to Him rejoicing, praising, asking, thanking, grieving, requesting, and worshiping. He seeks love and sincerity not eloquence.

Dear Lord, Thank you that you actually seek our fellowship. What a privilege and joy to be able to communicate in our simple earthly language with the Savior and King of the universe. Amen

© Christy Struben 2013