The LINK: 02/01
Friends and family of Congo-Pres,
Scripture is a way we can know Christ. Scripture- whatever translation of scripture we have opened in front of us or pulled up on our phones- is not just an instruction manual for faith, or about God or how to live. It can be read a number of ways. As winter lingers on, I want to invite you to consider scripture as a way of prayer. Like the Eugene Peterson quotes I’ve included above, prayer is about growing in Christ, about God’s work happening within us, about knowing God’s love for us so it can overflow out into the world.
I’d like to recommend the practice of “praying scripture”. It’s an ancient spiritual practice where certain passages can be read not just as words on a page, but as our words back to God.
Here’s what I mean: take a passage, whether a psalm, the Lord’s prayer in Matthew 6, Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:15-23, or 3:14-2, or some other passage.
Read the passage slowly, whether silently or out loud. Maybe read it a few times if it’s helpful.
Turn the words of the text into a prayer. Replace pronouns with “I” or “we” or add specific names. Personalize it by putting it into your own voice, and make it your prayer to God.
For example: Psalm 23:1- “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want”
A way you could pray this might sound like “Lord you are my shepherd. Guide me today. When-ever I feel anxious, or I feel like I’m lacking, help me to trust that You will provide what I truly need”.
This is a way that scripture guides and directs our prayers, which can be very helpful if you’re unclear what to pray. It forces you to slow down and dwell in scripture, and might even help a familiar passage sound fresh.
I say this to remind you that being a part of a church, being disciples of Jesus, is not just about outward doing, but also what the Spirit of God is forming, correcting, teaching, healing, and even birthing within us.
If you want to go deeper into this, let me know and I’ll put a group together or we can meet one on one to pray together. This is important, and something I’m passionate about, so feel free to reach out!
It is a blessing and privilege to be your pastor. As your pastor, I’m here for you.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Adam