Message from Michael

Principles of prayer in a pandemic

One Sunday evening last month, I shared online some Principles of Prayer in a Pandemic, and I’d like to reiterate a short section of this – focusing upon Jesus calming the storm found in Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41 and Luke 8:22-25.

In the midst of a storm, Jesus’ disciples turned to Him and sought His help. They were in darkness, isolated, vulnerable and in great danger. Yet they would experience their God’s presence, power, protection and provision. They were faced with fear, their own helplessness, an apparent hopelessness and a failure in their own resourcefulness.  Though there seemed to be no way out, they found that Jesus was the Way. This story encourages us to fix our eyes on Him and not on the storm, nor on our boat or our own ability to bail ourselves out.

Matthew, Mark and Luke paint, with their Greek words, a picture of the storm – one of sudden fury and violence, tumult and tempest. One that was throwing everything topsy-turvy – a truly seismic event. Without warning, without planning or preparing, those swamped by that storm found their world shaken and stirred and. Turned upside-down, they had reached their wits’ end.

And at the point of desperation and danger we have a picture of prayer – for they turned to Jesus. After all, where else could they find help?

So, they 1. Proceed in Prayer – The first step of prayer is to step forwards in prayer. Whatever the predicament, may prayer be the priority. Whether it be gathered prayer, private prayer, shouted prayer, mumbled prayer, silent prayer, tearful prayer – Pray, Pray, Pray! Jesus taught, “When you pray”, not “If you pray”.

They 2. Persevere in Prayer – Jesus had fallen asleep! And was still asleep - “sleeping on a cushion”. So, the disciples “woke him”. I can imagine them, recognising Jesus as their only hope, desperately shaking him awake. Jesus did not awake for the wind, waves or water sploshing around - but he did awaken for his friends.

At times, it may seem as though we have to get God’s attention – but the Psalmist reminds God’s people; “My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip - he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psalm 121:1-4) Any delays only serve to cultivate perseverance in prayer.

Note the 3. Person addressed in Prayer – In each of the Gospels, Jesus is addressed differently. “Master, Master” (Luke), “Lord” (Matthew), “Teacher” (Mark). Perhaps each of the disciples cried out a different title as they turned to Jesus - depending on their experience of him. Jesus certainly taught himself as all three – and more.

In prayer, we come to our Master who we submit to, our Lord God who is sovereign over all and our Teacher whom we are always learning from.

Hear their 4. Pertinent Plea of Prayer – a simple, desperate cry: “Save us!” When we realise that all we need is salvation in our situation – we cry out to our Saviour. No religious or lengthy jargon finds its way on this boat. In the storm you need a saviour – simple! Those who do not see their plight, or who even ignore it, do so at their peril.

Fearing for their very lives, the disciples cry out “We’re going to drown!” (Matthew, Luke). Mark records their questioning and confusion; “Don’t you care if we drown?”

So, may we also make it 5. Personal in Prayer – Let’s be honest with our emotions, fears, doubts, confusion. God wants us to be open with him and pray from our hearts. He is not interested in going through the motions or praying with lip-service. He wants heart-service. May we bring our “Don’t you care?” prayer, our “Master, Master!!” prayers – with honesty and without hesitation.

And, as we pray in the midst of the storm, may our confidence and faith be in Jesus, who guides us to the desired haven (see Psalm 107:23-31). Amen.