I’ve always known that prayer is how we commune with God—He is as close as the air we breathe. Growing up in a Christian home, I learned early that we can talk to God anywhere, anytime, and that Scripture calls us to “pray without ceasing.” But sometimes, hearing someone else say it out loud makes it land in a new and profound way.
Participating in the Practice of Prayer has helped me understand the importance of being intentional about my prayer life. It taught me not only that I should pray but how to build a rhythm that keeps my heart attentive to God throughout the day.
Because I struggle to sit still, my daily prayer rhythm has become twofold. Before sunrise, I walk through my neighborhood and talk with God in the quiet darkness. Then, throughout the day, my watch chimes every hour. Each alarm becomes an invitation—sometimes to a breath prayer, sometimes to a short word of gratitude. And yes, I often hit snooze, which simply means another reminder will follow. Another prayer. Another moment of awareness. Another opportunity for gratitude.
“Each hourly alarm becomes an invitation—another prayer, another moment of gratitude.”
These practices keep me mindful that God is always present, never more than a breath away.
I’m still far from “praying without ceasing,” but I’m learning that’s why it’s called the practice of prayer. Prayer is a journey. I won’t perfect it on this side of heaven, but I am meant to practice it every day. And knowing that God “bends down to listen” (Psalm 116) fills my days with strength and joy.
