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Pity Poor Bradford - November 2014 Prayer Column

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What is your mode of prayer: the snatched moment?  the regular slot?  And where: a private corner?  a seat on a bus?  a dog walk?  And how do you comport yourself: eyes closed?  meditating on a text?  letting the passing scene stimulate your reflections and requests?  Well, now we have the opportunity for a new take.  Through a willing landlord (and Bradford Met), access has been provided for Christians in the city to a prayer platform right in the centre of Bradford on the 8th floor of Arndale House just off Market Street (entrance in Charles Street, behind Bright House facing the new Westfield Centre – BD1 1EJ).  Sign in and summon the lift.
The 8th floor is an open plan office space with chairs, tables, prayer resources and windows – what windows!  You can walk round the floor  and gaze contemplatively and compassionately over the once proud and prosperous city of Bradford, above rooftop level at all points of the compass across to the horizon hills; and down on the streets, and watch the construction site as buildings arise from the hole.  So whatever your preferred mode you can exercise it here, but with a fresh angle. 
The aim is 24/7 prayer here, but at the moment it’s 8/5, with an invitation to any of us to drop in 10.30-3.00, Mon-Fri.  Creature comforts catered for: kettle, cups and kitchen – soup n bread lunch on Wednesdays 12-2.  I’ve been a few times and found it wonderfully conducive to prayer, for the city at our heart.
Roy

A prayer for each week
Lord of the distant horizons and far beyond, whose care knows no boundaries, please fill our hearts with 24/7 compassion for all Bradford and Bradfordians.  Amen.

Lord of the city , whose building can bless and prosper us with soul-deep shalom whenever we follow your plans, please help us soak our city and surrounds in prayer.  Amen.

Lord of the detail on the streets as well as the blueprint in the heavenlies, please may all that we do be guided by your all-encompassing and indwelling Spirit.  Amen.

Lord of the rooftops, rafters, ceilings, walls and floors, please help us base the building of our lives on you and your word, through Jesus, guided and empowered by your Spirit.  Amen.

Lord of the windows, who floods the world with the light of your Son, please shine into our hearts and help us radiate your blessings, in prayer, speech and action.  Amen.


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