Pray. Or do not. There is no ‘just’.

Famous theologian Karl Barth once said that “to clasp the hands in prayer is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world.” Prayer is a powerful tool that we’ve been gifted by a gracious God.

But how often do we squeeze in prayer before our rehearsals and services? I know I’m guilty of saying “let’s just pray.” It’s almost like I’m apologising for wanting to pray. The word ‘just’ is dismissive, minimising the importance of what we’re doing.

In reality, prayer is an opportunity to commune with the creator of the cosmos. It is a chance to still our easily distracted minds so that we can focus more on the presence of God. Through prayer we can hear God’s voice.

Maybe it’s because so many prayers feel unanswered (if that’s the case, read Pete Greig’s book ‘God on Mute’), or maybe we’re tired of declaring that THIS Sunday will be the one that sparks revival, only to have half the congregation stay at home.

In the song ‘Waymaker’, Sinach declares “Even when I can’t see it, you’re moving.” THIS is the reality that Karl Barth spoke of. Prayer changes things. Did you know that the Catholic Church began praying earnestly for a move of the Holy Spirit around 1900. Soon after, the Pentecostal movement began. Their prayers may not have been answered in the way they expected, but the world was changed regardless.

Yoda famously said to Luke Skywalker, “Do. Or do not. There is no try.” The same is true for prayer. When we gather to pray, let’s gather with confidence. Let’s not use vocabulary that apologises for taking time out of everyone’s busy lives to remind ourselves why we are gathering and make sure that prayer is at the centre of our worship.