Guide to Daily Prayer Quiet Your Heart As we seek the Lord, it is important that we slow our pace, our mind and our body, so we might better “see” and “hear” what the Lord might have for us. A major part of preparing a place for God to speak involves turning down the volume of the noisy world we have become so accustomed to living in. Take a few minutes to focus your mind’s attention, and heart’s affection, on the ever-presence of Jesus. Opening Prayer Comfort, comfort your people, O God! Speak peace to your people. Comfort those who sit in darkness and mourn, Forgive us our sins and end the conflict in our lives. The Reading of Scripture Take time to slowly, and prayerfully, read the Scripture passages assigned for the day. Pay special attention to words or phrases that might stand out to you. The Devotional Reflection Read the devotional reflection for the day. Look and listen for how the Lord might be speaking through the thoughts and reflections of another. Listen for God Before you rush on to the next part of your day, take a few moments to sit with the things you have read, and ask God if there is something specific for you to take away for today. If you sense a leading, be willing to follow it. Maybe write it down somewhere where you will be reminded of it. Allow this to orient you and the work, relationships and experiences you have throughout your day. Prayers The following is a suggested guide for prayer during Advent: • Pray for all Christians around the world and especially for those who endure persecution for their faith. • Pray for our nation and all those in authority. • Pray that Christ’s peace may cover the world. Pray for the end of conflict and war and the triumph of truth and justice. • Pray for those who suffer and grieve. • Pray for all those who engage in the educational ministry of the Church and especially for Friends University.
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