We conclude our reading of St. Paul, in today's second reading, with a rich statement he made in his letter to Timothy: "It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument."
Parse that out and there are three challenges he puts to us about our lives of prayer:
* Praying in every place. * Praying with holy hands. * Praying without anger or argument.
Taken alone, each of these could easily become their own focus - and are clearly worth our time to do so. How well do I pray when I'm outside of church, in the car, at work, walking from place to place, at rest, at home? Are my hands clean of involvement in sinful habits, impure vices, unethical practices or uncharitable works? Do I pray in peace, forgiving my neighbor and asking for forgiveness of my own faults and failings?
Which of these three is the biggest hurdle for you? How are you being called two more fruitful prayer? Ultimately it is the fruit of a quiet and tranquil life that we are promised - not that it will be uneventful, but that we may find security and peace in the presence and care of God. A fruit available through faithful prayer!