We had a most interesting meeting tonight at Alpha in the Inchyra Hotel. We were considering the topic of prayer. We all agreed that we’d try and support each other over the next two weeks as we explore the purpose and meaning of prayer in our personal lives. The group will not meet next week so we hope to keep in touch through this blog. So where does one start if you want to develop a prayer life? I’ve found that the Psalms in the Bible often act as a kind of prayer book from which you can explore a relationship with God. The psalmists for me seem to cover all kind of topics and they help me address some of the major doubts and worries and short comings in my life. Anyway here is a prayer I found which certainly pertains to me.

O Lord God,

merciful and mighty:

Help those whom I have neglected to help;

Set aright those I have caused to stumble;

Visit those I have neglected to visit;

Bring back those whom I have led astray;

Cheer the hearts of whom I have made sad;

Draw with the cords of love those for whom my love has grown cold;

Save them all,

O Lord have mercy on me the chief of sinners,

lest after I have preached the gospel to others

I myself should be cast away

Hear me, O Father for the sake of Christ my Lord

Unknown author