The Scherenschnitte
When my mother was going through a dark time in her life, I presented her with the gift of a miniature Scherenschnitte or Scissor Cuts. Centuries old, this art is an intricate design that often includes letters, cut with special scissors from thin parchment-like paper. Measuring only four inches by four inches, framed in a simple dark wood frame and mounted against a forest green background, the delicate design includes the phrase, “Prayer Changes Things.”
I hoped the message would remind my mother to pray often about her situation, as I had found in bleak times of my own, that I often forgot to pray at all. I learned that while a prayer of petition is not a wish to be magically granted as if from a genie, and may not change the situation. It could change my attitude toward or ability to bear the burden I’d been given, and in so doing, remind me that I was not alone. God has promised to grant us peace in prayer, a peace that transcends any human understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Jesus Christ. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Over the years, prayer has come to mean so much more than it did when I gave my mother this small reminder to pray. When she died, I found the scissor cut back in my possession, where it now hangs in my own home, reminding me several times a day to pray, not only in times of distress, but in times of joy and celebration to offer prayers of praise and thanksgiving. And to pray for others; those in need, those I love and yes, even for those who may be considered an enemy. God calls us to pray continually, in every situation.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. (Romans 12:12) Prayer does change things. If only I didn’t need the reminder of a Scherenschnitte!
Mary Anne DeYoung
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