April 26, 2003, James Montgomery (1771-1854), UK

Lord, teach us how to pray

Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed, the motion of a hidden fire that trembles in the breast. Prayer is the burden of a sigh, the falling of a tear, the upward glancing of an eye, when none but God is near. Prayer is the simplest form of speech, that infant lips can try; prayer the sublimest strains that reach the majesty on high. Prayer is the contrite sinner’s voice, returning from his ways; while angels in their songs rejoice, and cry, ‘Behold he prays!’ Prayer is the Christian’s vital breath, the Christian’s native air, his watchword at the gates of death; he enters heaven with prayer. No prayer is made on earth alone; the Holy Spirit pleads; and Jesus on the eternal throne, for sinners intercedes. O Thou by whom we come to God, the life, the truth, the way, the path of prayer Thyself hast trod; Lord, teach us how to pray!