THERE IS PRAYER IN OUR TALKS
Our meditation today has the theme: There is Prayer in Our Talks. The word “may” or "hopefully" is the key word in our prayers for others. In conversation or communication in general using media and direct or face to face talks, we always say "good luck", "all the best", "best wishes" and so on. These are all expressions of prayer, even though such communication takes place not in moment or occasion of prayer.
“Hopefully” or “may” is an expression of the human’s heart who prays for things to happen as expected. Sometimes people also use "hopefully" to wish bad luck to others, but this is not part of our reflection. Even though we don't give something concrete such as money or certain items, but when we say good luck, safe trip, good job in business etc., this prayer is sufficient as a sign of loving support and concern for the person being prayed for.
Many times we give this attention through the media that we are using. But is there a better form of attention given than a prayer offered? There are many dimensions in our communication, such as exchanging ideas, dialogue or storytelling, however, prayer remains the best instrument that we can offer to others. In all our communication activities, there should be a hope or desire for the other person to have a good and prosperous life.
It seems that something is lacking when in our talk or communication we do not give any sign or word of hope and goodness to our counterpart. In other words, in this talk or communication, there is no element of prayer expressed from our hearts and minds, and being uttered in words. Actually this is the same as to Saint Paul’s description in his letter to the Colossians in today's first reading. The apostle Paul says in the following words: “May you be filled with the knowledge of God's will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding, to walk in a way that is pleasing to God... therefore in every good deed you produce something good”, and so on.
In our prayers, one of the requests that we always pray for and hope to be answered by God is about the outcome of our efforts and works not only good and successful, but also multiplied hundredfold. This is not just a fantasy, but it is in accordance with the will of the Lord Jesus. Our prayers are in line with His will, as long as we fulfill the conditions, namely obeying His commandments and carrying out His will. Today, His word demands us to go deeper, and we will have abundant results.
Let's pray. In the name of the Father... In Your providential guidance, Father, may we as individuals and Your people bear abundant fruits from our efforts and work, both spiritual and physical. Our Father who art in Heaven... In the name of the Father...