Prayer: first thing, every morning

OK, the first thing after you hit the alarm clock to stop its ringing.

Let's start with a confession.  Routine is not my strong suit.  The discipline of following a regular pattern is not mine - I'm usually good for 3 weeks at best.  So keep that in mind as we talk about praying first thing in the morning.

I tried it after a particularly transparent presentation on the struggles, disappointments and joys of being a priest and bishop by a retired Catholic bishop.  He was so genuine; I could see the man wrestling with his faith, his pride, his wants and needs.  He spoke as an 'insider' having served the Church for 45 years and much of what he said fed me.

He ended his time with us by asking us to pray for him.  Not because he was sick, or because he had a particular challenge ahead.  No, just, pray for me because I know I am strengthened by the prayers of others.  So I did.

I began praying for him every morning, and once I had mentioned him I included several other folks I knew could use prayer or whose names just popped into my head.  Nothing special needed to be said, although I often used a prayer I learned in seminary.  It changed the tone and tempo of my day.  The prayer pushed away the 'to do' list until I at least got my feet on the floor, and it framed my day in God.  It was a good practice.

It lasted about 4 months (which for me is quite long).  Then I fell out of the practice.  Today I am trying to fall back into it.  All the benefits are there - for you, for your family, for those who you include.   And there are so many who need our prayerful support.

So try it.  Maybe something as simple as "Lord remember Robert and Judy and Matthew today.  Be present to them.  Thank you for this day and all that it will bring."  Or you can use the one I often use which comes from Morning Prayer ELW p304.

"Almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us in safety to this new day.  Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor be overcome in adversity.  In all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  AMEN"

I know you will be blessed.  God be with you all.