Step back in time and journey through the fascinating history of discursive prayer with the delightful book “Making It Personal: Your Guide to a More Profound and Rewarding Prayer Life ” by TIM FOLEY. Brace yourself for an informative and light-hearted ride that will leave you exhilirated and enlightened.
From the earliest days of humanity, prayer has been a powerful means of communication with the Divine. Picture our ancient ancestors huddled together, witnessing the awe-inspiring might of thunder and lightning for the first time. Fearful and uncertain, one brave soul must have pleaded, “Oh, great and powerful One, please protect us from the wrath of Your anger.” And thus, discursive prayer was born!
But fear wasn’t the only motivator for prayer. As humans, we possess both a physical and spiritual nature, and as some individuals awakened to their spiritual side, they began to pray for more than just physical safety. They sought spiritual blessings and guidance from the infinite one.
As time passed, prayer evolved, and examples of early biblical prayer emerged. Take, for instance, Abraham’s plea for the city of Sodom, where he courageously interceded for the inhabitants, seeking Divine mercy for their sake. (Genesis 18:22-24)
Fast forward to the ministry of Jesus, and we find a timeless classic – The Lord’s Prayer, or as some call it, the ‘Our Father.’ Jesus himself, ever the compassionate teacher, responded to a disciple’s request to teach them to pray with this profound invocation. (Matthew 6:9-13, Luke 11:2-4) Talk about a timeless masterpiece that has withstood the test of time!
But let’s not forget the shorter yet equally impactful prayers. Jesus’ words, “Forgive them, Father; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34), showcase the power of forgiveness and compassion in just a few simple yet profound words.
As we move through history, we encounter the works of early Christian seekers who sought unity with the Infinite One through prayer. These heartfelt discursive prayers paved the way for entering into moments of silent communion with the Father. Their longing for Divine connection is palpable in their words, like the prayer of the second-century St. Mark’s Liturgy.
Then came St. Augustine, a true gem in the mystical movement. His prayer, seeking God’s mercy, love, and wisdom, resonates with the deepest desires of the soul. (Augustine, 354 – 430)*
The sixth-century Syrian monk, Dionysius, the Areopagite, elevated discursive prayer to new heights with his book “Mystical Theology.” He emphasizes the importance of leaving behind the senses and intellect to attain Divine Truth through mystic contemplation. His words inspire seekers to strive for purity and detachment in order to receive the Divine Essence. (Mystical Theology, Chapter 1)
William Johnson further emphasizes Dionysius’ message in the “Cloud of Unknowing.” By emptying ourselves of worldly distractions, we make room for God’s ight to shine through. It’s like clearing the clutter to make way for something greater – the ultimate spiritual spring cleaning!
As we explore these beautiful examples of discursive prayer, we can’t help but connect with these early saints and mystics on a personal level. Their struggles and triumphs made them shining examples to inspire us to begin or continue our own prayer journey. It’s encouraging to realize that the path to Divine connection has been trodden by holy men and women who have come before us.
So, as you dive into the captivating world of “Making It Personal: Your Guide to a More Profound and Rewarding Prayer Life,” get ready to embark on a prayer adventure like no other. Through the wit and wisdom of TIM FOLEY, you’ll not only understand the historical significance of discursive prayer, but You might also find yourself amused by one or two of the real-life anecdotes sprinkled throughout the book.
Discover the power of prayer that has withstood the test of time, from ancient pleas for protection to Jesus’ profound teachings. Explore the prayers of saints and mystics who sought union with the Divine and paved the way for contemplative communion.
Are you ready to enhance your prayer life and tap into the infinite power of discursive prayer? “Making It Personal: Your Guide to a More Profound and Rewarding Prayer Life ” is the ultimate guide to not only unraveling the mysteries of prayer but also enriching your spiritual journey with laughter and love. So, don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind spiritual adventure! Grab your copy of “Making It Personal: Your Guide to a More Profound and Rewarding Prayer Life ” today and dive into the history of discursive prayer with a dose of humor and personal insights. Happy reading and happy praying!