“Let’s Pray!”  These are familiar words in our church culture.  When we gather as groups of Christians to study God’s Word someone usually says “Let’s Pray”.  When we gather to share a meal someone usually says, “Let’s Pray”.  When we hear of someone’s illness or witness their injury someone usually says, “Let’s Pray”.  In our pluralistic culture with diversity of beliefs and worldview it is still somewhat common in the midst of crisis to hear the words, “Let’s Pray”.

But what do these words mean?  Are they simply religious ritual or cultural commonalities?  Or is there something more…something deeper…something that reveals the very essence of life and value in these words?  What does it really mean to pray?

In Jesus’ famous “Sermon on the Mount” recorded for us in the fifth, sixth, and seventh chapters of Matthew’s gospel, Jesus has several things to say about prayer.  Things that, when submitted to a closer examination than our normal cursory reading or rote repetition, reveal a lifestyle and worldview that can radically redirect our lives.  Things that reset values, relationships, and ambitions.

In our Sunday gatherings this month, we are going to take a deeper dive into what Jesus teaches us about prayer.  I invite you to join me this Sunday and every Sunday in August to discover or rediscover what Jesus means when He says, “When you pray, pray like this!”  I look forward to seeing you.