THE FIVE FINGERS OF PRAYER
from Marist Messenger November 2002 Issue

1. Your thumb is nearest to you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved ones is, as C.S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

2. The index finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, priests and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep then in your prayers.

3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for civic leaders, for those in business, industry and administration. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance.

4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. They nedd your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

5. And, lastly, comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all. Whis is where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs would be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.


Should...

Should you find it hard to get to sleep at night, just remember the homeless family who has no bed to lie in.

Should you find yourself stuck in traffic, don't despair. There are people in this world for whom driving is an unheard-of privilage.

Should you have a bad day at work, think of the man who has been out of work for the last three months or more.

Should you despair over a relationship gone bad, think of the person who has never known what is like to love and be loved in return.

Should you grieve th passing of another weekend, think of the woman in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week, for $10.00 to feed her family.

Should your car break down, leaving you miles from assistance, think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk.

Should you notice a new grey hair in the mirror, think of the cancer patient in chemo who wishes she had hair to examine.

Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering, " what is life all about, what is my life purpose?" be thankful, there are those who didn't live long enough to get that opportunity.

Should you find yourself the victim of one's bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities, remember things could be worse. You could be them!!!

Should you decide to show this to a friend, you might brighten someone's day!