“Be vigilant at all times and pray that you may have the strength to stand before the Son of Man.”
Luke 21:36
As a child, in every homily, you would hear the priest say, “Pray!” Okay, I get the point, I should pray. But what is prayer? Definition after definition of what prayer is, and finally, I came across one that struck a chord with me.
Prayer is, “Intentional time with God.” Yes, it’s that simple, but not that easy.
Why? Well, because we are easily distracted, overburdened, and tempted by worldly desires. The “cares of daily life” smother the growth of God’s word and voice. The world’s words and voice are louder. If that’s the case, how do we combat this issue? Simple, we learn the habit of praying and taking intentional time with God. Not just before meals and before one goes to bed, but when one wakes up, before you travel, before you drop your kids off at school, or before a work meeting.
Try to get in the habit of praying before and after any and all the “cares of daily life.” After all, we are called to, “Be vigilant at all times and pray that you may have the strength to stand before the Son of Man.” Those of us who endure, who bear witness, who remain alert in prayer, have nothing to fear from the coming of the Son of Man.
Is it possible for me to pray throughout the day? Intentionally taking time to recognize him every moment of the day and being vigilant.
Lord, help me form a habit of praying always, in order to be prepared for your second coming.
Today's Reflection is by:
Fr. Izzie Hernandez
Did you know...
Fr. Israel “Izzie” Hernandez is a newly ordained priest for the Diocese of St. Petersburg. He currently serves as Parochial Vicar at St. Stephen’s in Riverview. His home parish is Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land O’ Lakes. He loves sports and is a fan of the Bucs, Bolts, Rays, Bulls, and Magic.
