Most of us are old enough to have heard the instruction to adopt an “attitude of gratitude” in order to make positive changes in our spirituality, and in our lives overall. We’ve learned that this simple shift in focus, seeing at least one thing to be thankful for each day, allows us to see plenty of good in the world, and to lessen any preoccupations with negativity. We see our lives as a blessing, and navigate the rough patches with less angst. This highly effective technique demonstrates the kind of change in focus that can impact everything in our lives. It is this same kind of shift that Fr. Ron Rolheiser, and others, asks us to consider making in how we look at prayer. They assert that prayer can be more than words or postures. Prayer can be an attitude- ultimately a way of looking at life, and how we connect with God. This idea of taking on an “attitude of prayer” in our lives can be a game-changer for us, for those in our communities, and beyond.
So what can we do to take on the attitude of prayer?
- Humility: Recognize one’s dependence on God, and take the time to listen for God’s voice in our lives, letting it guide us in all situations. Let God be God, and stop trying to take God’s place.
- Sincerity: Be honest and heartfelt in your thoughts or intentions. We can only stay in tune with, and open to, God (and that is a big part of prayer) if we strive towards being like God. Being sincere in all things, especially prayer, helps us to better connect with God and others. We can’t truly connect if we’re wearing a mask.
- Focus: Being mentally and emotionally present, setting aside distractions. This one is really difficult for most of us due to the busyness of our lives. Whether it is making an effort to clear away distractions so you have a place to pray daily, or expressing Christian love for others by being fully present to those you encounter, each of these efforts hinges on our desire for true connection.
- Reverence: Expressing awe, respect, and worship to God, by also taking the time to recognize God’s presence in all of creation.
- Discernment: Living in constant awareness of the divine—carrying a spirit of mindfulness, connection, and surrender throughout daily life. This is a skill that needs building, starting with listening in prayer, taking the time for a daily Examen (following the pattern developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola), etc. But we can all start. As I said, look for Love and Truth.
- Gratitude: Accompanied by thankfulness or recognition of blessings. Yep. See above.
So, as you can see, an attitude of prayer goes beyond moments of formal prayer. It’s a posture of the heart and mind that can be present throughout the day. It’s easy to see how that attitude can better connect us to God, but how can it be a “game changer” for our world? Let me quote Fr. Ron Rolheiser: “Central to our faith as Christians, is the belief that we are all part of one mystical body, the Body of Christ. This is not a metaphor. This body is a living organism. If this is true, and it is, then there is no such thing as a truly private action. Our prayers are health-giving enzymes affecting the whole body, particularly the persons and events to which we direct them” (“When We Doubt the Power of Prayer”, essay, www.ronrohlheiser.com, September 20, 2021). When we, then, are taking on an attitude of prayer for our entire day, our entire life, it only makes sense that the impact of God’s presence grows, and grows. The infusion and expression of the Spirit becomes ever more a part of us, and the world around us.
