We all understand how important it is to build a relationship with God to find peace and hope in our lives. Sometimes, however, we struggle with how to establish that connection. While prayer is the first step, we often find ourselves too busy or unfocused to dedicate time to it. This can be due to our long to-do lists, a desire not to miss an important TV program, or even some sports event. "Prayer is the raising of one’s mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2559). Prayer is the way to live the mystery of faith.
Saint Padre Pio had a life full of illness and pain, yet he was faithful, hopeful, and even joyful. He shared many pieces of wisdom about living a Christian life. Prayer was one of the most important topics he talked about throughout his ministry. He said, “Prayer is our best weapon; it is the key to God’s heart. You must speak to Jesus not only with your lips but with your heart. In fact, you should only speak to Him on certain occasions with your heart.” His teachings about prayer life are inspiring.
Here are some tips for a more fulfilling prayer life. First, we must understand that prayer is an act of faith. We need to believe that God listens to our prayers and responds according to His will. (1 John 5:14) Since God is love, everything in His will is beneficial for us. Prayer allows our souls to begin a transformative journey towards humility, helping us acknowledge our vulnerabilities. This humility forms the foundation of our relationship with God.
Second, we can use what Father Mike Schmitz calls T.A.R., which stands for Tell, Ask, and Rely. We need to tell God everything we have in our hearts and minds. We must praise Him and worship Him, not because he needs it, but because we must do so. Besides, being able to share our thoughts and feelings is an act of humility. This strengthens our faith and we can then ask God for our requests. We need to do it with the same conviction as the woman who had suffered from hemorrhages for twelve years. "She said, 'If I but touch his clothes, I will be cured.'" (Mark 5:28) Now, after having presented God with our petitions, we need to believe that God is good and completely rely on his heart.
Jesus made a habit of praying (Luke 5:15-16). He taught us how to pray and gave us the words with which to do so (Matthew 6:9-13). He also spoke about private prayer (Matthew 6:6-8) and prayer with others (Matthew 18:19-20). In Gethsemane, Jesus showed us the best example of prayer when he said, "Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will" (Matthew 26:39). He asked and relied on the Father just as we should.
God bless you.
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