National Prayer Day

Did anyone tell you it's National Prayer Day?? This announcement via facebook posts @ work let to a pretty deep discussion regarding science vs. faith and the possible ways we each questioned parts of our own religion.  The discussion was among a liberal Catholic, liberal Baptist and a conservative Baptist.  Interestingly, we all agreed on one thing...God.  


Now I'm not one to force my views on others but hey, it's my blog. Don't read if you're sensitive today :) In light of the day, I'm going to publicize my devotional time.  Confession: I consider myself more spiritual than religious.  I don't believe in obligating myself to attend church services, tithing to specific churches, or necessarily memorizing the Bible.  My relationship with God is my own and I don't have to meet a group of people on Sunday to hold hands and sing. I can sing in the shower and give praise more openly...anyways...

Tonight's readings are from the story of God making Sarah (Abraham's wife) pregnant in old age and then led into Matthew 6: 1-24 in which Matthew teaches us the following (as I interpret): 

*Keep your good deeds to yourself. God doesn't reward publicity. 

*Pray in private and speak as you would to your ultimate Father...repetition of biblical phrases can leave out the meanings in the prayer and God already knows what you'll ask before you do

*Forgive 

*If you fast, do it privately

**Store your treasures in heaven; where ever your treasure lies, your heart lies also

*See the good in life because when you see only bad, your whole body becomes bad.Also, be willing to address your own faults....it's worse when you see yourself as having the light but you really are full of darkness

*You can't serve God and money...one will always come first.  

Guilty.  I struggle with all of those aspects in some way.  Thankfully, these truths have been sort of a huge sign in front of me all day.  They just keep coming up randomly.  Now, as literally the 3rd time I've been in thought about it, I realize someone upstairs is screaming some things I need to work on.  

To anyone out there who may read my thoughts tonight,

May you find peace and clarity in your religious beliefs. 

I sincerely hope that you have the insight to take note of the things

you need to do to be more prepared for whatever your afterlife brings.

Being a Christian, I hope that you find your way to God and 

that you never lose your path.  

Good Night, All.  Muah!