There is always time to pray

“Prayer is for the religious life what original research is for

science -- by it we get direct contact with reality. We pray because

we were made for prayer, and God draws us out by breathing himself

in.”

-- P.T. FORSYTH

Last Thursday was a great day in many ways. It was the first of

the month, it was the first of May, and it was May Day.

I love May Day. When I was young, my friends and family members

often gave or received May baskets, May flowers or big tasty May

cookies. Occasionally, we even danced around maypoles at a friend’s

house who lived out in the country. If I close my eyes, I can still

picture it all, and even remember how warm and fresh the cookies were

as they quickly melted into my mouth.

Last Thursday was also a day of deeper significance. There’s

certainly nothing wrong with those, but life is about more than just

playing. There is a time for praying, too. Last Thursday was a day

covered in, filled with and focused on prayer.

It was the 51st annual National Day of Prayer. After the Colonies’

victory in the American Revolution, there must have been a sense of

optimism and excitement. There was also a sense for the need for God

and for prayer.

In his first inaugural address, George Washington said, “It would

be peculiarly improper to omit, in this first official act, my

fervent supplications to that almighty being who rules over the

universe.”

People across the country were encouraged to take moments during

the day to spend time alone or with others in prayer last Thursday.

Some celebrated the day with songs of praise and worship in homes or

neighborhood gatherings, others went to churches and met with pastors

or sang along with live or recorded music, or even media-guided

prayer. Others prayed quietly alone in their homes.

Since even before the war began, we’ve all prayed for the health

and safety of our troops and the innocent lives caught in battles.

Last Thursday was a day to continue to pray for those overseas, but

also for clear godly wisdom and guidance for our nation’s leaders and

decision-makers.

Boys and girls and men and women of all ages and stages in life

knelt on their knees or at least in their hearts to pray for the

needs of the nation and many for personal needs as well. President

said, “The National Day of Prayer is a vital part of our national

heritage, because prayer is a vital part of our national life.”

On my morning walk last Thursday, I overheard one little boy say

happily to his mother, “I’m praying for the new baby in you, for our

president far away, for our flag, and for a new puppy for me.”

I smiled at the sweet honesty and reality from such a young child.

No matter how busy we are or make ourselves, we can always make or

take some moments to pray, whether it’s the official day to do so or

not.

And you can quote me on that.

* CINDY TRANE CHRISTESON is a Newport Beach resident who speaks

frequently to parenting groups. She may be reached via e-mail at

[email protected] or through the mail at P.O. Box 6140-No. 505,

Newport Beach, CA 92658.