The Power of Prayer
Prayer, like a soft spring rain, can soften the most hardened hearts and obstinate wills. It encircles the globe like a golden ring, reaching those most in need of its benefits.
Francois Mauriac on the Effects of Prayer
In his book, Guides to Holiness, Francois Mauriac writes,
“In each family, one single faithful soul is perhaps enough to draw after it all the others who are not faithful. From one generation to the next, this torrent of love carves out a bed for itself through fatal rocks of heredity. No one ever prays without all those dear to him being caught up in his prayer. The Redemption does not only mean that we are redeemed, but also that we redeem. Each faithful soul in a state of grace is involved in redemption. Whoever understands this is rescued from despair.”
What Prayer Changes
Prayer does not force God to follow our plans, and it does not always remove suffering immediately. It changes our relationship to every circumstance by opening the heart to grace. In prayer, we learn to seek God’s will, receive strength for the next faithful step, and remember that no person or situation is beyond His care.
Intercessory prayer is an act of charity. When we pray for family members, friends, the Church, and people we may never meet, we place them before God with love. Prayer also changes the one who prays, forming patience, humility, forgiveness, courage, and attention to the needs of others.
Build a Daily Habit of Prayer
A steady prayer life can begin with a few faithful moments: offer the day to God in the morning, pause briefly at midday, and make an examination of conscience before sleep. Short prayers throughout the day keep the heart turned toward God even during work and ordinary responsibilities.
Use these short daily Catholic prayers to begin, or submit a prayer intention for the Knights to remember in prayer.