St Peters RC Church Hamilton

Sit on a swing or in a hammock,

Or alternatively, a place where you can simply sit comfortably,

To leisurely bring your thoughts to Jesus.

For what is prayer actually,

If not a conversation with the Master,

Who together with the Spirit and our Father,

Created us for their happy company?

This friendship has to start somewhere.

The best place is in the company of Jesus,

The Man come from heaven

To identify for us the way forwards,

Which will safely lead us homewards.

So, sit quietly, reflectively pondering

Sit easily in the beauty of a summer garden,

The warmth of the sun a helpful reminder

Of all the true love our Father offers us,

In His Son, by His Spirit.

We meet wisdom and truth in talking to Jesus,

Asking for His opinion on anything that affects us.

As you move gently to and fro, leisurely resting,

Let your thoughts flow wherever the Master

Or the Spirit directs us, connects us to our Father.

You may well be surprised at the path taken,

But let your thoughts follow this spiritually

For there is so much to be gained by the Trinity’s holy company.

You may well receive inspiration by information

Coming to your mind or your heart, or your notice,

To impart the godly presence of God’s Son,

Whereupon you must trust the spiritual leading,

An element of prayer is certainly asking, even pleading,

But equally important to develop, is the skill of listening,

Hoping for the Lord God’s Spirit to fill you.

This leisurely way without hurry,

Offers optimum opportunity for that which is holy

To occur to you, to stir your imagination and faith’s dedication.

Linger awhile in this leisurely style.

Treasure the time together as precious.

Your prayerful approach to the Lord Jesus will be rewarded,

According to the time afforded to listening.

For in your listening lies the learning,

Turning all thoughts heavenwards, all thanks to Jesus.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart” (Proverbs 3 v 5) making a start now, one sunny summer’s day, a fine time to pray outside.

“Lean not on your own understanding,” (Cont.) but ask of the Spirit of revelation into how holy wisdom and truth apply to your situation.

“In all your ways acknowledge Him” (Cont) especially with thanksgiving for the increased ease of summer living, this leisurely, fine time.

“And He will make your paths straight” (Cont) gradually, prayer by hope building prayer as you enjoy the leisure and of course, pleasure of the company of the Trinity.

How truly happy this makes us, Lord, this personal, special contact with You. Thank You for warm summer weather, for leisure time, for prayer encouraging us to trust Your ways, not ours.

Once we appreciate You always know best and will help us to find Your way forwards whatever the situation, even the most complex, then our faith’s trust is enhanced. In all our praying, keep us properly relaxed in Your company, so we listen and learn, so making better progress. Amen.