The prayer: simplicity instead of burden
The Epistle to the Hebrews says that we should cast off every burden that hinders our progress: “Therefore let us, who are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us” (Hebr 12,1 Zurich Bible).
This biblical admonition is easier said than carried out. Burdens and burdens can be diverse and hinder our progress. When we share our struggles with other Christians, we often get answers like: We'll pray about it or I'll think about you! These words come easily from the lips. Talking is one thing, living by it is another. I have noticed that no part of spiritual transformation is easy.
Our loads can be compared to luggage. Anyone who has traveled, especially with children, knows how stressful it can be to transport luggage through an airport. There are luggage cart wheels that won't stay on track and bags that slip off your shoulder while the kids go to the bathroom and are hungry afterwards. You often think to yourself: If only I had packed less!
Ideas about how to pray can also become burdens that we carry around like heavy bags. It is often emphasized that one should pray for a certain amount of time or that the correct posture and choice of words are important when praying. Do you also feel burdened by such ideas?
Have you ever considered that we might have missed the true meaning of prayer? Has God really given us a list of rules we must follow for our prayers to be accepted? The Bible gives us a clear answer: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philipper 4,6).
The first question of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, a 17th-century creed, is: “What is the chief purpose of man? The answer is: The chief purpose of man is to glorify God and to enjoy him eternally.” David expressed it this way: “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Ps 16,11).
One of my favorite pastimes is drinking tea, especially when I can enjoy it the British way - with delicious cucumber sandwiches and small tea scones. I like to imagine sitting with God over tea, talking to him about life and enjoying his closeness. With this mindset, I can put aside the heavy bag of preconceived notions about prayer.
I am learning to relax in prayer and find rest in Jesus. In doing so, I remember Jesus' words: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Mt 11,28-29).
Don't make prayer a burden. It is actually a simple decision to spend time with the one you love: Jesus Christ. Carry your baggage, your burdens and burdens to Jesus and remember not to take them back with you when you have finished the conversation. By the way, Jesus is always ready to talk to you.
by Tammy Tkach
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