The Oasis - May 15, 2019

Philippians 4:6–7.Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Every day I seem to be adding more names to my prayer list. There are names from within and far beyond the congregation. There are family members, friends, colleagues, and many throughout the world that I’ve not ever personally met. 

Prayer matters. I encountered many people (today alone) who feel weighed down by grief, worry, fear, and anxiety. God will take those cares and concerns from us, if we will but let God do so. Our part of that interaction is to pray.

There are many different types of prayer. One thing I can say with certainty is that there is no ‘right’ to pray. When we open our hearts, God hears us with whatever words, whispers, or thoughts we use. The only ‘right’ way to pray is the one (or are the ones) that are right for you!

Prayer is our way of communicating with God. The very basis of prayer is trust that God is involved in our lives. The Apostle Paul invites us to “Ask with thanksgiving”. Thank God for what you have…thank God the connection you have with God…and thank God for listening. 

Sometimes you’ll say “thank you” or “not again” or even ask “why?” Sometimes you’ll speak or sing or whisper. Other times, your prayer may be a walk on the beach or a tear trickling down your face. You may write poetry, draw a picture, write names, or use beads, shells, or candles. You could kneel or stand or curl up in a ball; eyes open or closed; palms up or in prayer position. How you pray matters less than that you pray. When you open your heart to God and that Holy presence, wonderous things happen. Transformation happens. 

I’m mindful that just before I sat down to write this Oasis, I finished the Thursday Worship service for tomorrow, which features an introduction to a couple of different types of prayer through art. Thursday Worship is winding down for the program year so if you’ve been curious about this alternative service, please come! It’s from 5:30-7:00 in Fellowship Hall. A light supper will be served and all supplies for projects will be provided. There is no fee. 

On May 23, we will prayerfully lift up the numerous ways that Thursday Worship has blessed folks over the last two years. On May 30, we’ll have a Blessing of the Animals from 5:30-6:00 outdoors at Fellowship Hall. Pets and their people are most welcome, and you may also choose to bring stuffed animals or photos of pets. 

Over the next several weeks, we will be evaluating Thursday Worship. Please return the questionnaire that you received in your May newsletter. Evaluations are also being distributed at Thursday Worship.  I invite you to join me in praying for God’s guidance, support, and peace.

May you place your faith in God, and in doing so, know God’s peace.   
Blessings, 
Rev. Estelle