Paul instructed believers to "rejoice always, pray without ceasing”. The Greek term adialeiptos, translated as "without ceasing," implies a habitual, persistent practice rather than literal nonstop verbal prayer. It reflects a lifestyle where prayer is woven into every aspect of life, echoing the call to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions"..png)
Every thought, word, action, or feeling that expresses love, joy, or gratitude is a prayer. Even those that express a lower vibration are prayers. For example, if I am feeling discomfort in my body from an illness or injury, that feeling is a call for healing.
On my walk the other day, I remained mindful of all my senses and of my thoughts and feelings. I inhaled the scent of peonies and freshly mown grass. My eyes drank in the beauty around me and delighted in the brilliant colors and shapes of nature. I opened my ears to the music of birdsong and carillon bells from a nearby church. I felt the warm kiss of the sun on my skin and the refreshment of a cool breeze. I experienced it all as prayer.
I also felt the neuropathy in my feet and the familiar ache in my right thigh. I acknowledge these physical sensations and accept them as part of my human condition. I practice non-resistance and this, too, is prayer.
I recognize that my thoughts often reflect my shadow, especially when they are judgmental or critical of another person. I realize that the things I criticize in others are traits of my own that I prefer to deny. When I have these kinds of thoughts, they can be transmuted into a prayer for acceptance of my shadow as part of who I am, for healing of my self-judgment, and for self-forgiveness.
By Catherine Donavon
Unity Santa Fe Prayer Practitioner
Prayer Practitioners Available Every Sunday and During the Week
Every Sunday, after service, you have the opportunity to pray with a Unity Prayer Practitioner in the Sanctuary or youth classroom.
You can also request to have a Prayer Practitioner call you once a month or during the week for a Private Prayer Call.