Two people want to pray. People can certainly
pray anywhere, but these two decided to go to a place
where prayers are routinely said. There is definitely
something that enhances prayers by going to a place that
really is set aside for such activity. The atmosphere
may quiet the spirit, the whispers of other prayers, long
since said, may still inhabit the space, pulling us toward
a transcendent experience.
A really fascinating book, just released,
called The Year of Living Biblically tells, among other
things, how the regular practice of prayer brought a sense
of inner belief that has never been there before. So,
regular prayer does have benefits. Some do find time for
this vital spiritual discipline.
These two men have decided to do so. They
have arrived at the designated place of prayer. One walks
in with much confidence. He exudes a personal assurance
that many envy. That type of person walks in a room and
immediately “owns” it. The space belongs to
him, even if he has never seen it before. He knows his
power and everyone else knows he knows. Charisma. He’s
got it. Everyone acts glad to see him. The energy immediately
rises.
The other, however, slides in furtively.
Will he be well-received? Too many times, the “no”
in answer to that question has bounced off the blank and
unwelcoming faces to his fearful brain. He looks around,
not sure where to stand, not really wanting to be noticed.
The first man, we shall call him the Confident
Man, speaks boldly to God, and cares not who hears his
words. He knows his goodness and has no fear of letting
others know.
The second man, and perhaps we can call
him the Mousey Man, barely mumbles his prayer. The last
thing he wants is for others to hear him. He knows he
needs God; he knows his unworthiness.
We all know the story—the Confident
One leaves with his prayer unheard; the Mousey Man’s
prayer goes straight to the heart of God. So we all want
to identify with the Mousey Man. But there’s a problem
here. Aren’t we supposed to approach the throne
of Grace with confidence? Hasn’t Jesus paid the
price? Aren’t we supposed to have a “personal
relationship with Jesus Christ? Doesn’t that give
us the right to approach God with familiarity? As in,
“Hi there, Daddy. Time for my wish list!”
