prayer – Page 5 – 300 words a day

Monday musings on prayer.

“Is Jesus God?” is a question I sometimes ask people when they are struggling to figure out prayer. It’s not a debating question. When I ask, I’m usually talking to people who can’t quite believe that I’m asking. “Yes” is the most frequent answer. “Duh” is next. I continue: “And prayer is talking with God?” […]

by Jon Swanson

A Monday morning prayer conversation.

“But I don’t know what to ask for,” I said. What do you mean? “Everywhere I turn, there are huge events and great risks and massive suffering. And I don’t know whether to ask for rescue or judgment or protection or deliverance or the Cubs to win.” Why do you think you have to ask […]

by Jon Swanson

Starting the work week.

As a hospital chaplain, I often walk into to rooms of pain or uncertainty or waiting. I offer presence. I offer ears. Sometimes I offer conversation or counsel. And sometimes I say, “Would it be okay if I pray?” You may think that I should always ask that last question. Perhaps you are right. But […]

by Jon Swanson

Listening for Lent.

[This continues a conversation started yesterday] “That’s a great summary,” I said. “Lent is about talking and listening to God.” “But isn’t there more?” he asked. “Why do we always hear about Lent as a time for giving things up? When I was growing up, my friend always gave up watermelon and black licorice. Of […]

by Paul Merrill

Facing three mountains

I’ve been trying hard to figure out what to write about three mountains in front of me. During the last week, three separate friends have asked me to pray for their challenging situations. Each faces a similar huge trial. I don’t want to describe the situations out of respect for their privacy. But suffice it […]