Last week I wrote of our need to pray fervently for he victims of Hurricane Katrina, and while many of us wonder what good prayer might be at a time like this, assured readers that it just may be the best gift of all. As I wrote those words I was struck by the memory of so many who continually ask me to help them with the "how-tos" of prayer. The next couple of my columns will deal with prayer and perhaps encourage us all to enter into a better relationship with God. These thoughts will be taken from several different sources as well as the lived experience of many I have spoken to. What are the basics of Prayer? - To grow in friendship with the Lord we need to spend time with him. It is good to keep the following points in mind. Place/Time. You can pray anywhere, but it is good to find a special place where you can slow down, relax and focus your attention. The outdoors, a chapel or your own room are all appropriate places for prayer. You can also pray at any time, but it is good to select a regular time each day. The biggest excuse most Christians have for not praying is that they can’t find the time. The truth is we can all spare 10 or 15 minutes each day to spend with the Lord, but we have to discipline ourselves by finding a special time and staying with it. Prayer is a habit. We learn to pray by praying. Relaxation. Prayer demands our attention. If we are tired, distracted or edgy we won’t be able to pray well. Masters of the spiritual life suggest that we assume a body position that keeps us alert but also helps us relax. Sitting in a chair with our backs in a straight line, lying on the floor, kneeling, sitting in the lotus position are all acceptable prayer positions. We should also spend some time calming our bodies so that our minds and spirits are free to commune with the Lord. Becoming aware of our various senses, rhythmic breathing, listening intently for the sounds around us, becoming aware of the tensions in our body and consciously allowing them to face away - all of these can help us get ready for prayer. Proper attitude. Prayer requires openness and devotion to God. It is always good to begin our prayer by recalling God’s presence, his friendship and the many gifts he has bestowed on us.         From "This is Our Faith..." by Michael Francis Pennock It is interesting that the basics of prayer noted above begin without uttering a word. Too many of us try to pray on the run, whether it is when we are driving or otherwise occupied. While this may not be bad, it truly can be if this is the only time that we pray during the day. When our minds and hearts are otherwise engaged, we cannot be with the Lord as we need to be. What would a friend or acquaintance say if we were supposed to be in conversation with them, and our attention is draw over their shoulder. How frustrating it must be for the person who knows that the one they are speaking to over the phone continues to work right through their conversation. So too the Lord. After all, what is more important for those 15 minutes a day? "Wheel of Fortune"? A report due at work? A trip to the supermarket?

© 2005 Peter J. Andrews