|
A WORD FROM THE PASTOR
Five Finger Prayer For Lent
During Lent, the Church invites us to deepen our life of prayer. One simple and beautiful way to remember whom to pray for is the "Five Finger Prayer."
Your own hand becomes a guide, reminding you that prayer is always within reach.
| 1) |
The Thumb - Pray for Those Closest to You
The thumb is the finger nearest to you. Let it remind you to pray first for those who are closest to your heart - your family, friends, and loved ones. They are often the easiest to remember, yet sometimes we forget to intentionally place them before God. Praying for our loved ones is, as C. S. Lewis called it, a "sweet duty." Lent is a perfect time to lift them up daily in prayer. |
| 2) |
The Pointing Finger - Pray for Those Who Guide You
The next finger is the pointing finger. It directs, instructs, and shows the way. Let this finger remind you to pray for those who teach, guide, heal, and counsel others - teachers, doctors, ministers, catechists, and mentors. They carry great responsibility in shaping minds and hearts. Ask God to grant them wisdom, patience, and compassion as they lead others in the right direction. |
| 3) |
The Tallest Finger - Pray for Leaders
The middle finger is the tallest. It stands above the others and can remind us of those who stand in positions of leadership. Pray for national and local leaders, for presidents and public officials, for leaders in business and industry, and for administrators in our communities. These individuals help shape society and influence public life. During Lent, ask God to guide them with integrity, justice, and humility. |
| 4) |
The Ring Finger - Pray for the Weak and Suffering
The fourth finger is the ring finger. It may surprise many to learn that this is often the weakest finger - something pianists know well. Let it remind you to pray for those who are weak, struggling, sick, lonely, or burdened. Pray for those who carry hidden pain, those facing trials, and those who feel forgotten. They need our prayers constantly. In this Lenten season of compassion and sacrifice, hold them especially close to your heart. |
| 5) |
The Little Finger - Pray for Yourself
Finally comes the smallest finger, the little finger. It reminds us of our place before God - small, dependent, and in need of grace. The Bible teaches us, "The least shall be the greatest among you." After praying for others, turn your heart toward your own needs. By this time, your concerns will likely be in proper perspective. Pray for humility, conversion, and a deeper love for Christ during Lent. |
A Lenten Reminder:
This simple prayer method teaches us something important: prayer begins with others and ends with ourselves. It forms a heart that is less self-centered and more Christ-centered. |
As you journey through Lent, let your hand be your guide. Each time you look at it, remember:
✞ Pray for your loved ones.
✞ Pray for those who guide you.
✞ Pray for leaders.
✞ Pray for the suffering.
✞ And finally, pray for yourself - that your heart may grow closer to God.
In the Service of the Lord,
 |
|
|
