Skip to main content

Always Connected - April Prayer Column

Always Connected

The rising generation is always connected.  You see it wherever you go: heads down, thumbs active, eyes glued, ears wired.  It’s true they sometimes don’t seem so much in touch with others around them, but they’re plugged in and switched on.  I’ve been wondering about 3G (always connected) prayer.  It isn’t new, of course.  Jesus said we ought always to pray and not lose heart (Lk 18:1), and Paul urged it often: ‘Pray without ceasing’ (Ro 12:12; Eph 6:18; Col 4:2; 1 Thes 5:17).  There is much to be learned from teenage dedication, but with one or two major differences.

In prayer we’re not connecting to some remote system of machinery for as long as our credit lasts, but with the Father God in the control room of creation, to whom we have been granted (through Jesus, in the Spirit) 24/7 access – wherever, whenever, whoever, and forever.  It’s a pretty good contract.  And the purpose of getting connected is for help in time of need to be more in touch with those around us: more compassionate, more open, more listening, more helpful.  More present where we are, as the Quakers say.

The only thing remaining is to learn how, and as every child in the rising generation knows, all you have to do is switch on and get exploring.  The world awaits.

Roy Lorrain-Smith

A prayer for each week

Just a quickie, Lord.  I want to say thanks for always being there.  It’s so great to know you’re always available.  And such a blessing.  Why don’t I do it more often?  Sorry!  Thanks.  Bye. 

Lord, looks like your help’s needed with that guy over there.  I can’t do anything but ask you.  Please tap on their window, lift the gloom, whisper a message, bring a friend.  Thanks. 

Lord, I’ve got here, but I don’t know where next.  Please guide me: where to turn, what to decide, and who with.  I want to do your will, not the world’s, but it’s hard to see how.  Amen. 

Lord, I’ve just a moment.  Please bless what I’m doing, so I do it right.  And bless those I’m meeting, and working with, so that your presence, direction and energy fills us all.  Amen. 

Your own prayers

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Share the joy of Christmas with older people

The most important Christmas Card you’ll send this year Methodist Homes (MHA) are asking YOUR CHURCH to share the joy of Christmas with older people this year.  Could you take the time to write just one extra Christmas card which will be passed to an older person cared for by MHA?  To take part, please refer to the further  details and an order form . Instructions of how to take part, as well as special Christmas cards designed by an MHA resident for your church members to write their own messages of goodwill and friendship, are included in the Christmas Friendship Appeal pack. “May I express my gratitude for your lovely idea of asking folk (including children) to send Christmas cards. We appreciate the warmth and concern of the whole idea.”  MHA Resident

Holiday at Home 2016

July the 4 th is Independence Day in the USA. It was also Independence day for the people of Bradford North Circuit. Holiday at Home descended once again on St. Andrew’s Church. This year, we had more guests than ever before. We had new guests from Baildon, Saltaire and St. Andrew’s. Monday 4 th July The day began with everyone getting to know one another. The Agape area was soon buzzing with conversation. Vast amounts of cakes, buns etc. along with gallons of tea were consumed. Shortly after we moved into the church for lunch. Once again our food providers at St Christopher's did us proud. The word DIET was banned for these three days. The fresh cream trifle was to die for. We also care for our helpers! After Lunch we enjoyed games. Believe it or not, Snakes & Ladders was popula...

Swishing Party

Swishing Party 7.00 - 9.00 pm Tuesday 7 August 2012 Thackley Methodist Church BD10 0RH Never heard of it??? This is how it works ... you bring good quality items of clothing/accessories/shoes etc from your wardrobe and for each item of clothing you will bet 1 ticket - this/these ticket(s) can be used then to purchase any item of clothing you decide on at the Swish. These items can be brought to Thackley Church on Monday 6 August between 6.00 and 7.00 pm. There will be a 'look and trying on' session from 7.00 pm - 8.00 pm and you will be able to have refreshments. Absolutely NO-ONE is allowed to claim items before the swish opens at 8pm. You can leave with as many items as you want - but each additional item will cost £2 Entry to the event is £5 and this will include refreshments.