We need to consider not just the why and how of prayer but the what, what are to pray for?
As part of this sermon those listening were encouraged to answer the following questions. The first three are in response to the sermon series over the past month, the remaining are in response to the pattern of prayer we see of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. (The time of silence of filling out the questions has been removed from the audio, those listening can simply press pause.)
Things I have learnt about prayer:
Prayer is different now because:
What I want to learn about prayer:
Following Jesus’ example …things I am grateful for are:
… people I should be praying for are:
… big decisions I should pray about are:
… the deep concerns of my heart I should bring before God are:
Having welcomed Jesus into her home, Martha soon becomes distracted and anxious, having fallen into the temptation of comparing herself with her sister.
In contrast, defying cultural norms, Mary sits eagerly at the feet of Jesus, not only testifying that all people are called to be followers of Christ but demonstrating the priority of time with Jesus, as the ONE, BETTER way.
Join us as we’re encouraged to spend time with Jesus in prayer.
Luke 10.38-42
We can get prayer wrong. A major issue in prayer is pride. A good test for pride is whether we can say this prayer.
We do not presume to come to your table, merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in your manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under your table. But you are the same Lord whose nature is always to have mercy. Grant us, therefore, gracious Lord, so to eat the flesh of your dear Son Jesus Christ, and to drink his blood, that we may evermore dwell in him, and he in us. Amen.