“Prayer is a way that our hearts can communicate in faith, a way that we can ask questions and receive answers, a way that we can openly express our feelings and concerns. Prayer is a wonderful source of strength for a person, and prayers can become even stronger when we turn to each other for support in prayer. Lean on prayer to help you through difficult times, and know with certainty what the power of prayer can do.” – Susan Hickman Sater

Prayer is so important in our lives. There are times that people have said I prayed for such and such and nothing happened.  Jesus taught us in the Our Father, Thy will be done. If what we are praying for does not happen, many times grace is given for us to accept the outcome. Prayer also gives us the time to be in touch with our God and sometimes just the time to be quiet and reflect.

“We can’t always be peaceful and loving, even when we have the best intentions. Unexpected events can stimulate fear. Buttons can be pushed. A burst of anger can lead to words we later regret. No emotion is right or wrong. All emotions are natural.

It is so important that we be gentle with ourselves and accept our emotions without judgment, no matter what is going on. Acceptance releases negative energy.

Just knowing that there are times when we are powerless over our feelings can be the beginning of peace. Turning our emotions over to a power greater than ourselves, and trusting that God can and will do for us what we cannot do for ourselves, can bring us peace.” – Ruth Fishel

Today’s reflection, again reminds us how God is present with us at all times.

Many times we just need to stop, and tap into that presence within us.

One thing that this pandemic has taught me is how important reflection time is in my life.

In spite of all that’s going on, I find myself more at peace because I’m taking more time to be in touch with God’s presence within me.

“Too often discouragement, unhappiness, and stress take a toll on our lives and rob us of the joy we are entitled to. It’s at those times that we must not take the power of prayer for granted; we should stop what we’re doing and focus on God. In stressful times, we should consciously back off from the situation and take a moment to reflect on what’s really important. A conversation with God has a way of putting things in perspective. He often helps us change our attitude, find a solution, or see the humor. God shows us what our talents and gifts are and how to put them to use for our success and peace of mind. God reminds us that mistakes and failures are okay; he helps us learn from them and gives us the confidence to go on. Life can be tough with all its challenges and problems – we get tired and fed up, and sometimes we feel overwhelmed – but it really isn’t all that difficult when you have God… That’s when life is as simple as a prayer.” – Barbara Cage

This is an important reminder of how we really need to stop and communicate with God. Yes the formal prayers are good

But simple prayers during the day are just as meaningful.

“Good morning, Jesus.”

“Oh God, help me get through this.”

“Thank you, Jesus.”

Take time during the day just to touch base with Jesus. I find my days are much better when I take the time to stop and talk to Jesus during the day. Amen

“The world will not fall apart or leave you behind if you allow yourself a few moments of quiet.

There is no need for stress and struggle. Everything that is meant to be will be – with or without your help.

So relax, find your balance, and remember… breathe.” – Lisa Butler

I guess you realize how true this is as you get older. Let go and let God!

I remember years back when I was principal rushing from one thing to another. Stress would pile up because I would not take the time just to be. As the saying goes… take time to smell the roses, or look at the beauty of the snow and just say thank you God! Amen