Prayer is a Relationship

The seeker seemed perplexed. "A state of prayer?"

"Thats right. Being in a state of prayer involves living in such a manner that regardless of what we might be doing, we're always praying."

"Yes, but what do you mean by that; how do I get that?" said the Seeker.

Father Laurence continued, "The question is, what does this involve?" The Seeker remained silent, waiting for Father's answer.

"Well, for starters, wouldn't it seem to require that we strive to become conscious of being in God's presence, because prayer is above all a relationship? And this has nothing to do with feelings -- it's a question of awareness, something that's present regardless of what we're feeling. But it would also seem to require more than that. We could imagine, for example, how the 'Evil One' could be aware of being in the presence of God, yet we'd hardly say that he was living in a state of prayer. What makes all the difference, I believe, is the intention to please God. In addition to the consciousness of being in God's presence, were we to have the constant willingness always and everywhere to do what is pleasing to God, then such an attitude would constitute a state of prayerfulness."............

Father Laurence..."For example a doctor performing surgery is hardly able to give his attention directly to God. He's totally immersed in what he's doing. Yet if he's developed the habit of being conscious of being in the presence of God and has the intention of praising God, his surgery is indeed a prayer, and when he's finished with the surgery his mind will go back naturally to thoughts of God"

The Monks of New Skete


I strive for this although it seems to work when I read, spend time with people, help others, cook, write and various other things. It doesn't really work when I am driving in traffic as I cuss and moan. Maybe it does and God understands I am not a perfect being and enjoys my nuances. Prayer is NOT a bedtime wish list or a cry for help every once in a while. Prayer is a REAL and CONSTANT relationship with God. Thoughts to ponder, see what happens.