Praying, fasting, caring

Praying, fasting, and caring for others (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18) are three pillars not only of Christianity but of many religions. Jesus asks his disciples to avoid show with regard to these religious practices.

For instance, praying is a way of relating to God and not showing off one's virtues. We can derive three do's and three don'ts of prayer. Don'ts: (1) Don't pray like hypocrites. Avoid all show. (2) Don't pray like Gentiles. That is, don't use too many words. God knows whatever you need even before you start your prayers. Don’t use meaningless words. Mean what you pray. (3) Don't pray like beggars. Pray like children, as children would approach their Father for whatever they need. God knows your needs more than you yourself know. God provides for you as a good Father. And as children, you have a right to God's gifts; if you need God will give you. Have faith.

The three Do's of prayer therefore: (1) Go to your private room. That is, enter into your heart and pray. Jesus doesn't mean that you need a private place in order to pray. [In Jesus' time, even the idea of private rooms wouldn't have risen, I suppose.] (2) Shut yourself in. Don't just use your senses and imaginations, but also allow your heart to participate in prayer. (3) Pray to your Father in heaven. Be aware of the presence of God wherever you are. Pray to God, don't be involved in mental arguments with yourself or some other human person.

Prayer is a relationship with God, your Parent. Prayer is not about changing God's mind, but changing your mind according to His will. Not just your mind, it is about changing your heart. In prayer, just report for duty, don't give God instructions. He knows better. He knows the best. He knows everything, including you and your urgent needs.