6th July 2014

Prayer
A four year old boy was asked to say grace before Sunday lunch. He was really pleased to be asked as this was a job for the grownups.

He solemnly bowed his head and made the sign of the cross. He thanked God for mummy and daddy and all the people seated around the table. He thanked mum for cooking the dinner and God for giving them the food. He gave thanks for the roast lamb and mint sauce, the roast potatoes and the peas. He thanked God too for what was for pudding, but he was sorry that he did not know what it was yet, but mummy knew and God knew. He then paused and everyone waited and waited. They were just about to make the sign of the cross, so that they could get on with the dinner, when the boy looked up at his mum and whispered loudly,” Do I have to thank God for the broccoli? Won’t he know I’m lying!!?

Not only did the little boy show he knew the difference between right and wrong, he also revealed a simple truth about prayer. Prayer is at its most authentic when each thought or word is intentionally offered, rather than just being an empty memorised formula.
Blessed John Newman’s description of prayer was, “Heart speaks to heart.” Prayer from the heart is perfect prayer. Prayer also doesn’t need a lot of effort.

Come to me all you who labour and are overburdened and I will give you rest. Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. Yes, my yoke is easy and my burden light.
(From this week’s Gospel)