Intentional prayer

In one of his latest homilies Pope Francis asked, "Do we pray … out of habit, piously but unbothered, or do we put ourselves forward with courage before the Lord to ask for the grace, to ask for what we’re praying for?"

This got me thinking about my own prayer life. I have often been guilty of praying out of habit, simply reciting words that I have had memorized since I was a little girl, but not reflecting on their true meaning or how they apply to my life. So, as I was going to bed that night, and reciting the Lord’s Prayer, I remembered Pope Francis’ words and decided to pray from my heart by reflecting upon the words instead of just rushing through them. It was a much more meaningful experience! Here are the questions I used to reflect. Take time to try it out.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

How do I use my words and actions to honor God?

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Have I doubted God today? Do I try to control things that I really have no control over?

Give us this day our daily bread.

What physical, emotional, and spiritual nourishment do I have to be thankful for today?

And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

Have I forgiven people who have hurt me? Have I told them how I feel?

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Is there temptation in my life that I have given in to? How can I resist temptation?