Prayer With Few Words

While the actual author of this quote is in question, St Francis of Assisi most often has the following attributed to him:

Preach the gospel at all times and when necessary use words.

During the Covid pandemic our local health officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry made six little words famous around here by ending her daily TV briefing this way:   “Be calm. Be Kind. Be Safe.” 

Six little words but they help all of us remember some important things not just for during stressful days of a pandemic but during ordinary days and weeks and months.

When Jesus’ followers wanted to know how to pray, one of the things He told them was that prayer’s effectiveness wasn’t about the number of words used:

When you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.

Matthew 6:7

I’ve mentioned before how the prophet Micah sorted out what was important for us to focus on each day in order to please God.  He managed to get it all said in 14 words.

O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

And how simple did Jesus keep it with His response to His disciples when they asked Him what we needed to do in order to do the work of God.  Jesus said: 

The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.

John 6:29

Today we find a prayer in Psalm 19 that is just a few words as well but one which helps us set our hearts, minds, and mouth in the right direction.

May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. 

Psalm 19:14

And let’s end with that prayer Jesus taught His friends:

Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed by Your name.  Your kingdom come.  Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory for ever and ever. Amen

Have a great day.