The ABCs of Prayer: A Simple Method From the Masters of Meditation

A is for Adoration.

Begin by adoring Christ. Fish were made to swim and are only happy in the water; we were made to know, love, and serve God, and feel like fish out of water if we don’t adore him.

Picture Jesus sitting with you in your favorite place and pray:

“Oh my God, I adore you from the depths of my littleness. You are so great, and I am so small.”

To boost your adoration, use this aid:

          Litany of Faith, Hope and Love

B is for Blessings.

Review how God blesses you daily. It is easy to feel alone and forgotten in the world, even when you live with other people, but you are never alone. God is smiling on you always.

Thank him for the blessings you have been given today and be specific:

             Review How God Has Blessed You Today

C is for Contrition.

Express your sorrow for sin. After reviewing your blessings, ask, “Did I use these blessings for God and others, or did I horde them for myself or use them against God and others?”

Imagine each of the five wounds of Christ and kiss each one, praying:

“Jesus, I am so sorry; I love you.”

Identify the individual sins you need to repent of by using one of these:

           6 Ways to Examine Your Conscience

S is for Supplication.

Say what you hope God will supply. It is easy to turn prayer into a wish list for God, so save petitions for last.

Ask for what is needed by:

… the Church; your nation, state, city and community; the poor, the sick, and suffering; those without faith, family or friends; pray for the needs of your enemies and your own loved ones.

But also ask God to give you what you need most in the spiritual life:

          Prayer for the Holy Spirit (Pentecost Sequence, Prose Version)

          Prayer to Be Configured to Christ

          Forgiveness Prayers

Schedule a work of mercy you can do today.

You love God above all things; now love your neighbor as yourself by planning one:

The Seven Corporal Works of Mercy
1. Feed the hungry.
2. Give drink to the thirsty.
3. Clothe the naked.
4. Shelter the homeless.
5. Visit the sick.
6. Visit the imprisoned.
7. Bury the dead.

The Seven Spiritual Works of Mercy
1. Counsel the doubtful.
2. Instruct the ignorant.
3. Admonish sinners.
4. Comfort the afflicted.
5. Forgive offenses.
6. Bear wrongs patiently.
7. Pray for the living and the dead.

By Tom Hoopes