In less than 200 words and in only eight verses, the passage from James that we’re exploring this Sunday focuses on prayer. Seven times it names prayer but every word in the passage is about praying. Are you sick? Pray. Are you happy? Pray. Are you going through hard times? Pray. Have you sinned? Did someone sin against you? Pray. And then pray again. Keep praying. In hard times and in good. Pray.
Hmmm, there must be something to this thing called prayer.
We hear about the practice of prayer. We hear about the power of prayer. How often do we deeply think about it? What does it mean to have a practice of prayer? And, how are prayers powerful when there is still war and conflict and suffering and abuse and death and devastation?
And what role does prayer play in reconciliation and repentance?
This Sunday we recognize Orange Shirt Day and the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (Sept. 30). We have an ongoing part to play today in learning about, and from, the past in order to transform the future. And, maybe, just maybe, prayer is a tool that can help us in this work.
See you at church in your orange shirt!