The Preacher riding his circuit came upon a member of his flock who had not been to church for several years. The man argued that he had heard it all before and knew it better than most preachers.

“Do you know the Lord’s Prayer?” asked the Preacher.

“Certainly,” the man replied. “My mammy taught me when I was knee high to a grasshopper.”  

The preacher said, “I don’t think you really know it, brother.” I don’t think you could recite the Lord’s prayer without stumbling. I’ll make you a wager. If you can say the whole Lord’s Prayer straight through without your mind wandering off, I’ll give you my horse. If you can’t, you come to church every Sunday for a year.”

“That’s practically stealing your horse, but it’s a deal. Get used to walking, Preacher.” The man began, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be . . .  I forgot to ask. Do I get the saddle along with the horse?”

“See you in church, brother,” said the Preacher as he rode away.

A funny story that touches on truth under the humor. Prayer is frequently distracted, whether we’re praying at Sunday worship privately by ourselves. It takes intentionality to overcome distraction. A helpful bit of advice is to pray before you pray. Tell God you’re about to pray and ask God to assist you. God knows you’re praying, but it’s worth reminding yourself, that you are in the presence of Almighty God praying.  Maybe then you’ll  pay a bit more attention.

Read 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne