Artist: Lev RussovDoes anyone remember that radical little book of prayers entitled Are You Running With Me Jesus? by Malcolm Boyd? It came out back in the 60s and had a considerable influence on me. Here's something Fr. Boyd said:
I believe that God prays in us and through us, whether we are praying or not (and whether we believe in God or not). So, any prayer on my part is a conscious response to what God is already doing in my life.
I like this because it reminds us that prayer is not so much something we do as it is something to which we give our assent.
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Sounds to much like we are puppets on strings to me. Why are we even necessary then--just as entertainment to God?
ReplyDeleteCarolyn L.
Well, I wouldn't think of it that way, Carolyn. (But that won't surprise you!) I think this statement is really to counteract the belief of some people that we have to EARN our way -- that we have to "get it right" with regard to our prayer. It sort of indicates that prayer is more a place that you go rather than a task you perform.
ReplyDeleteDoes that give a slightly different slant on things?
I first read Boyd's book when I was in college. It was my first encounter with such a personal spirituality. It impacted me in so many ways, and I still cherish it.
ReplyDelete". . .prayer is more a place that you go rather than a task you perform."
ReplyDeletePrayer as a place of refuge--what a comforting concept. Especially when paired with the idea of it isn't a task you perform so the form it takes also loses its rigidity. How wonderful.
Unfortunately,this isn't what I get from the quote of Fr. Boyd's. To me it smacks of predestination so why even bother showing up to the party.
I much prefer your concept. Maybe his would be different if I read it in context.
Carolyn L.