According to Scripture, it is the heart that prays. If our heart is far from God, the words of prayer are in vain.
“For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.”
— St. Thérèse of Lisieux, as quoted in paragraph 2558
— Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraphs 2562, 2558
I’m not a Roman Catholic. Yet I’ve read the Catechism through twice and found treasures there. This is one, reminding me of the very simplest truth. Yet I find my heart is often far from God, even when I’m praying. How can that be?
I have to admit that “god” is often just my routine, the patterns in my life that help me feel secure. My heart isn’t much involved; the flame is smothered by ashes. I’ve let a million things distract me from the light of life. I do it over and over again. You’d think I could learn this simplest of truths.
It becomes time, yet again, for me to pray what I pray when I mess up. With my heart, this time!
Grace and peace to you…
dw
becoming flame 