Think & Reflect:
The sages tell us to say 100 blessings a day and we are also supposed to pray 3 times per day. What is the difference between a prayer and a blessing? Not so simple – there are different types of blessings, but the main purpose is to thank G-d for what we have been given or are about to enjoy. A prayer is basically talking to G-d and it can be a specific prayer from the Siddur (praybook) or it can be when we just call out to G-d. People often ask if we are “allowed” to ask G-d for things and the answer is yes – as long as we aren’t depending on the answer to be YES, every time! The “order” of prayer is: Praise, Petition, Thanks (even if you haven’t received). Very similar to how children approach their parents: Mom, you are wonderful. Can I have a toy. Thanks!
Possibly the most familiar prayer is the Shema, which has often been called the watchword of our people. It can be found here: Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 11:13-21, and Number 15:37-41. In these verses, we find the essence of Judaism, the belief in one G-d. Not only do we say this prayer, but it is what is inside of the mezuzah!!
Questions to Ponder
Not everyone is comfortable with prayer as we question the power of prayer. This is a good time to think about these questions and then try it!!
- Why pray? Who is listening? Does it work?
And for those for whom prayer is part of your life, think about how this became part:
- Do you prefer a standard written prayer or just a personal outpouring?
- When do you pray and how does it make you feel?
Do & Share
There is a wonderful story about a queen looking for the perfect prayer and three friends are sent to find it. One says it is silence: shhhhh… One says it is thinking: mmmmm…. And one says it is the sound of wonder: ahhhh… When we put them together it is: ShhhMmmmAhhh. Try it and keep this prayer close to your heart!
A Challenge for a Week (or longer)
Another book to check out: Talking to God by Naomi Levy!! The book is filled with wonderful prayers and hopefully will inspire you to come up with your own. Here is her prayer when we are searching for the ability to pray (a challenge for many of us):
Open my eyes, G-d. Help me to perceive what I have ignored, to uncover what I have forsaken, to find what I have been searching for. Remind me that I don’t have to journey far to discover something new, for miracles surround me, blessings and holiness abound. And You are near. Amen.
Laura Seymour | Camp Director Emeritus | Jewish Experiential Learning Director
