How is your energy level at this point in the year? If you are anything like me, you may have reached a season of low energy, limited bandwidth, yearning for some balance and sustainability. If that is the space where you find yourself, I’d like to invite you to a *very small* prayer practice. Try writing a three-word prayer. That’s it. Just three words. What would you say to God today if you only had three words?
Recently, I challenged Confirmation students (grades 7-9) to write their own three word prayers. In my mind, I was creating a bite-sized, baby step prayer experience for these preteens and teenagers who are coming to my Confirmation program after a full day at school. They have spent all day listening, learning, studying, answering, testing, not to mention navigating the social environment of a middle or high school. It’s no wonder that by the time they arrive to Confirmation, it can be challenging to meet them where they are. After a long day of school, a long night of Confirmation just isn’t going to work. And a long prayer at the end of the night? Forget about it! But a short prayer – a three-word prayer –felt possible. Doable. Bite-sized. Baby steps. What I didn’t anticipate was the depth and authenticity of what can come across in just three words.
Thank you God.
Please bless me.
Guide Me Lord.
Show Me How.
God, help, please?
Beautiful, aren’t they? And written by 12, 13, and 14 year old students! And if they can do it - after a full day atschool - you can do it, too! Even if it’s been a long day for you, or a long week, or a long season. Try it out. Just three words.
Maybe you want to practice the three-word prayers of the course of a week! Or as a small, bitesize Lenten practice? Imagine 40 days of3 (or 4 or 5) word prayers. What meaning could you find in distilling your needs, your wants, your gratitudes to the size of a teaspoon? What would you learn about yourself, or about the world around you and how you perceive and engage with it?
This is a great practice to try by yourself, or in a group. What if you started a Council meeting, Staff meeting, Bible Study or Adult Forum with the invitation to everyone to write a three-word prayer. (And share as you feel comfortable?) Would the meeting flow more smoothly with everyone focused? Would the true issues, worries, and goals arise sooner and clearer? Maybe! Maybe not! If nothing else, a moment of reflection and connection can set up a group to listen and respond thoughtfully.
It’s a fun *little* practice, and sometimes little is just the right size. After all, I am reminded of the quote by Meister Eckhart, a medieval German philosopher and theologian: "If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is 'Thank You,' it will be enough.” 2-3 words is enough. Try it. I think you’ll be surprised by the depth and authenticity that arises, just as I was amazed by those from the youth in my program. And again - if they can do it, you can do it, too!