The Phenomenology of Prayer Pt. 1

The Steps of Prayer for Christianity

12/1/19

Bruce Benson and Norman Wirzba talk about the steps of prayer in the first chapter of the book. He breaks down Samuel's prayer to God and how it can be used as a good example for other Christians. The first part is mutual of divine speech. God calls and Samuel responds. But he responds in a way that is unheard of in the church. Instead of praises or asking for forgiveness, Samuel says something that accepts and allow God to speak again. I thought this was really interesting that Samuel didn't immediately praise or ask for anything, it seemed to be a mutual conversation but still respectful at the same time. It was more of conversation rather than a cry for help. I think that' s what prayer is all about: a mutual relationship between a being and their followers. That being is almighty and powerful, but their followers should just be as respected as they give respect. the Second aspect of Samuel's prayer was learning how to prayer, which can be difficult task. I have been praying for as long as I could remember. My teachers always taught us to have a conversation with God, rather than asking for forgiveness. It was hard to talk to someone that really couldn't hear, especially at a young age when you really didn't understand the concept of praying. The third part of prayer is the importance of silence. It hard to keep the silence, especially when your surrounded by your friends in the Chapel in 3rd grade. But if there's not some sort of silence, it's impossible to hear God's voice Observing silence is the most important aspect because if you aren't silent, you are either talking to yourself or to someone else and not focusing on the bigger picture. The final aspect of prayer is the importance of the Scripture and prayer. Prayer and Scripture need each other in order for both to make sense.