SITUATION EXPLAINED
Today we hear St. Paul telling the people living in Thessalonica that they should "pray without ceasing," in other words, "NEVER STOP!" Let's get realistic, though, how can God expect us to spend all day, every waking hour, praying? Who's gonna pay all of the bills, God, and do the laundry, and clean the house? What about the future, God? Are colleges going to admit me, or companies hire me if I spend every minute of every day following the above command to pray?

SOLUTION OFFERED
Obviously, the above scenarios is not realistic.....or is it? When do you pray? Most people say, "before bed" or "when I wake up," or "when I'm in the car, I pray." That's GREAT, and each of those are wonderful opportunities. What St. Paul reminds us of today, among other things, though, is that everything you do in the course of the day could be a form of prayer, as long as you're doing it with a thankful heart, and as one more way of praising God. Prayer isn't reserved for when you're in a church, or when you're lying in bed at night. Almost anything you do during the day can be a form of prayer. From doing the dishes to cleaning your room, from walking the dog to being more patient in rush hour, do them with God in mind, and make a sacrifice to Him in the name of Jesus.

A few practical ideas that may not seem like prayers, but are definitely prayerful actions:
-Take a shorter shower so others have more hot water
-Go to bed a little earlier tonight, so you're in a better, "holier" mood tomorrow
-Smile at ten people today
-Write a letter or an email to someone you'd like to thank or compliment
-Turn off the TV and spend more time in conversation with a family member

SALVATION GIFTED
"Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Jesus Christ." - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

I'll try if you will,

Bible Geek

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