SIGHS TOO DEEP FOR WORDS
For we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. (Romans 8:26 NRSV)
It is a fascinating definition of prayer: to pray using “sighs too deep for words.” Perhaps it’s just a deep breath of relief, or to breathe with emotion. Sometimes when I think about our world, all I can do is sigh. I often am lost for words about what to say or think, especially when a friend dies suddenly or another is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after losing her husband. Then all I can do is sigh - as in “heave a sigh,” or even a groan or moan. I think God feels that, too. It’s nice to know that a sigh can be a prayer, too. When I pray, as I think about our world and my place in it, I can think of that sigh as a feeling which invites the Spirit of God to connect with me in outreaching love. Then comfort comes.
I believe that every moment and every daily event are opportunities for prayer. Prayer for me is a way of life, not an event. Prayer grows out of your own life, personality, needs, and rhythms. Each day and every moment are filled with opportunities for prayer. If we seize these moments, we open ourselves to the greatest enrichment possible. Prayer leads us to the One who satisfies every prayerful heart.
My guidelines:
Don’t worry about words or formulas. Prayer is a listening.
There is no special method. Do it your own way.
Pray where you are - God is everywhere.
When you sin and fail, pray anyway. God keeps on loving you.
Pray when worried. Prayer puts everything in perspective.
Pray when sad or sorry. Weep. Tears are a prayer of the heart.
When your heart is bursting with thanks, enjoy. God’s spirit is praying within you.
Embrace the whole world in prayer. Peace depends on it.
To pray is to breathe. Do it deeply and be filled with life!
Kaye White
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