Thursday Devotion

by Steven Grace

Matthew 6:5-15

At this year’s Annual Conference, Bishop Trimble during one of his addresses to the conference, made reference to Anne Lamott’s book “Three Essential Prayers.” As is always the case, there were some good things, and I made a note to look up the book when I got a chance and see what it was about. Coincidentally, about a week after conference, I was with the girls at the library, wandering the shelves while the girls did story-time, and there, as one of the highlighted books, was none other than Anne Lamott’s “Three Essential Prayers.” (Thankfully, sometimes God just smacks us upside the head to let us know what He wants us to be doing!)

So as I read through the book, remembering some of the points Bishop Trimble highlighted, I quickly realized two things: 1) Anne is right, those three prayers are essential; 2) I, personally, and we at Springdale, have experienced those first-hand, just in recent months.

Obviously, when I first heard about the book, we were still in the midst of our 135 day journey in the NICU. Coincidentally, I left the conference early, because the doctors wanted to do a spinal tap and check Jaclyn for meningitis. Talk about putting things into practice. The entire drive from Des Moines to Iowa City, I was praying: “Help, God. Protect Jaclyn.” “Wow, God, what great medical staff and facilities we have to recognize symptoms and try to get ahead of a problem.” “Thanks, God, for safe travel to be with my family.” And then, later, “Thanks, God, that it was not meningitis, and things are still looking quite positive for our little peanut.”

I think from March 14^th when we went to the hospital to today, I have said so many variations of those three prayers, that I can’t even keep track. But I’ve also realized that those three prayers apply to us at Springdale, too.

“Help, Lord: our finances aren’t the greatest, and we need to improve.” “Help, God, as we try to find ways to help people on their spiritual journey.” “Help, God, we have 80 kids coming to Bible school, and we are looking for those extra nooks and crannies where we can stick them!”

“Wow, Lord, we were able to raise enough money in a month to cover over half of our roof project!” “Wow, Lord, we have had several baptisms, and other young families expressing interest in our programs!” “Wow, Lord, we have the chance—if only for a week—to make a lasting impact on the lives of 80 youngsters as the look to learn about you!”

“Thanks, Lord, for the dedicated members that work tirelessly on so many fronts to keep this church functioning.” “Thanks, Lord, for your guidance and teachings that enable us to be your hands and feet in this world.” “Thanks, Lord, for the opportunity to share your love and message with 80 youngsters!”

Life is busy. Praying can be hard. But when, not if, you are struggling to find the right words, remember that “…your Father knows what you need before you ask Him;” (Mt. 6:8) and remember those three, easy prayers, which can quickly connect you with your Father: Help! Thanks! Wow!

Prayer:

O, Lord, thank you for the gift of prayer, and the ability to speak with you. Help us remember that we can come to you at any time, with any words, and you will know what is on our heart. In Christ name we pray, AMEN.