Prayer, Prayer and More Prayer

It has not gone unnoticed in my brain that I have been being surrounded by wonderful women who pray for a couple of years now. They started showing up in my life, one by one. Initially, it was informal, or connected to a bible study group. Then, last year, when my kids started Kindergarten, I got asked if I'd like to be a part of a Moms in Touch group. "I'm not used to praying aloud..." I told her. She reassured me that whatever I prayed would be OK.

Now, God and I... we talk all day long... but pray ALOUD. That's something entirely different. I am not used to that even yet. But, as you might imagine, opportunities keep presenting themselves. Some days, leaving the prayer circle before worship starts, I am caught wiping a tear as I take my position on the stage. Her eyebrow raises. "had to pray" I sign. She nods.

A few weeks ago, we had a special communion service. I went and sat with someone I'm just getting to know. I asked if she wanted to pray and I'd sign what she said. "I'm not used to praying aloud" she said. ("OK, God. Thanks" I think...) "OK", I told her, and I began.

I'm getting used to praying for the schoolchildren. When I'm a little insecure, all I have to do is think back to Kindergarten Graduation last year. Not only was I thrilled for my kids, but at one point, I was awed. I became suddenly aware that every single one of these children walking across the stage has been prayed for - by name - over the course of the school year. One by one, they got called up to receive their 'diplomas', just as one by one, their names had been lifted up to God.

And yet, when I recently got called "Prayer Warrior", I was stunned. Prayer Warrior? Where? ME? Nah... Oh, OK... I guess. If you say so....

God's not done with me on this one. I am a work in progress. Whether I will ever be completely comfortable praying aloud, I don't know. I do know I will continue to give it my best shot.