“Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial” (Matt 26:41).
I declare to myself that this year, 2024, shall be the year of prayer.
I have never been a prayer warrior. Yes, I have studied the Bible, theology, and church history. Likewise, I have worshiped and praised. But prayer has always been a weak point for me.
It is time to make prayer a priority. It must become a daily habit. No, even deeper. I must learn to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess 5:17).
I will study and practice the Jesus Prayer with the Eastern Orthodox Tradition. Furthermore, I will practice the prayers in the Common Book of Prayer. I will pray the prayers in Luther’s Small Catechism. And I will practice the prayer in the Catholic prayer book of St, Benedict. In all cases, I will learn how to pray from those who have been praying for ages.
I will, of course, pair this with Bible reading and meditation. And I will not neglect silence, solitude, and simplicity. My desire is to grow in my relationship with God.
Pray every morning and prayer every evening. And pray throughout the day. Remember to remember. “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess 5:17).
Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.