What are we doing when we pray?

It would seem to me that the answer to the above question will be based on our own view of what we perceive prayer to be. Below is an offering from James Montgomery. The contribution is to be found in the Methodist Hymn Book (Hymns and Psalms) number 557.

Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed, the motion of a hidden fire that trembles in the breast.

Prayer is the burden of a sigh, the falling of a tear, the upward glancing of an eye when none but God is near.

Prayer is the simplest form of speech that infant lips can try; Prayer the sublimest strains that reach the majesty on high.

Prayer is the contrite sinner's voice returning from his ways, while angels in their songs rejoice, and cry "behold, he prays!"

Prayer is the Christian's vital breath, the Christians native air, our watchword at the gates of death; we enter heaven with prayer.

O thou by whom we come to God, The Life, the Truth, the Way! The path of prayer thyself hast trod: Lord teach us how to pray.

I invite you to consider the above contribution and to share your thoughts about what prayer is for you and what you believe you are doing when you pray.

Shalom friends as always

Stephen