Back to basics.

Every man prays in his own language, and there is no language that God doesn’t understand. –Duke Ellington


Prayer is “one of those things.” No two people pray in quite the same way. Sometimes prayer is words; sometimes prayer is silence. But every time we pray, we are seeking Love.

Not long ago, a group of seminary students and friends gathered at Church in the Circle for a day of retreat and renewal. As the day progressed, a group of four asked if there was a quiet place where they could go to pray. They were taken to the Wiggle Room, a space outfitted with a round table and comfy chairs.

As they thanked the man who had led them to this place, he asked a favor:

Could you pray—for me?

Of course, they replied. Come and sit with us. Would it be all right if we laid our hands on you?

And so he sat. And these believers each gently placed a hand on his shoulder, and they prayed. And when they finished, he thanked them and returned to work.

But the memory of the gift he had been given remained clear and vivid in his mind. Days later, as he told me this story, his eyes misted a bit. Those friends of yours, he said. They are really special. I’ve never had anyone pray for me before.

Yes. They are. And once you’ve experienced the power and presence of God’s Holy Spirit through the prayers and presence of another—you are never quite the same. Amen?


Monday Take time to look for new life: a blade of grass; a leaf on a tree; water rolling over river stones; the wisp of a cloud in the sky. As you study, consider the Creator who is also your Redeemer. Psalm 84:1-4

Tuesday Today, look for new life on the streets of your community. God is present in all places. As you look through God’s eyes, give thanks for God’s holy presence. Romans 13:8-10

Wednesday Spend some time in silence. Listen for a whisper, a quiet revelation of the Almighty. Give thanks and rest in that place. Romans 15:5-6

Thursday Maundy Thursday We are designed in the image of the Creator. Take a moment and meditate on the image of Christ in you. John 19:17-22

Friday Good Friday Is there any place inaccessible to the Lord? (This is not a trick question!) Take time today to make yourself available to the Almighty. Allow God to work in the dark spaces. John 19:28-30

Saturday Look in the mirror. Study the palm of your hand. Listen to the sound of your breath. Feel the beat of your heart as it sends life through your body. You are a miracle! Never doubt that you are precious in God’s sight. John 19:38-42

Sunday On this Easter Sunday, we celebrate the new life, God has given to each of us and to this Body of Christ. Look around at the beautiful family of faith drawn together in this holy place, and give thanks. Peace be upon your spirit. John 20:1-18


I pray on the principle that wine knocks the cork out of the bottle. There is an inward fermentation and there must be a vent. --Henry Ward Beecher

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