The boundless power of prayer
Prayer: A Journey to the True Self
As the festive season of Christmas draws near, many hearts feel a profound longing for prayer – a quiet yearning to clasp hands and offer goodwill and intentions for loved ones, humanity, and the entire world. Prayer has the remarkable ability to mend relationships, heal emotional wounds and purify the heart.
When we pray, we connect to the deepest core of our being, our true Self. In that sacred act, we invoke that truest Self, that purest, unspoiled part of ourselves, the eternal essence that exists beyond time and space. Praying helps us to transcend ourselves beyond our daily consciousness. It helps us maintain the connection with the Supreme force of the whole existence, God.
A Timeless Tradition
Since the beginning of this world, humans have been praying. Across cultures and eras, countless forms of prayer have evolved, yet all share the same ultimate aim: to connect with the highest goodness, that we call God. Humans pray to obtain mercy from that Supreme Being, all-pervading, ever-present God, and to better themselves – their lives, the lives of all other creatures, and the whole universe.
Prayer is like pure water, quenching the inner thirst of a weary soul. It is a true compassionate friend who heals the wounds in our hearts and lives. It is a ray of the sun in the darkest days, the hand that offers help when we need it, and the peaceful, loving presence to calm us down when the waves of our emotions are too high.
Vishwaguruji on Prayer
Author and founder of the Yoga in Daily Life System, Vishwaguru Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda, Vishwaguruji, describes prayer as a deeply personal consultation with God. He says, "Prayer is our real friend. Prayer is our real companion. Prayer is our real light and love. And that prayer will always keep us in the light."
He states that prayers often arise from people who are suffering, from loving hearts, or from spiritual seekers, filled with inner longing for the divine. He affirms the transformative power of heartfelt prayer, saying, "The impossible, the unreachable, and the unimaginable can be achieved through prayer. Have faith in God and pray to God! Whenever you encounter any difficulties, retreat into your inner temple and pray. Your prayer needs to come from your heart."
The Practice of Prayer
Vishwaguruji encourages everyone to incorporate prayer into daily life, suggesting prayer at least twice a day, at auspicious times of dawn and dusk.
He suggests that life feels empty and purposeless without prayer and meditation, "Every day that you miss your prayer and meditation, is a day lost. Prayer and meditation lead to realisation. Meditation should be a deep need within us. We should crave it as much as an addict craves their drug."
A Call to Action
Prayer is not merely a ritual but a pathway to self-discovery and spiritual awakening. It connects us to the divine, bringing light into our lives and the lives of others. This festive season, let us embrace the power of prayer, finding solace and strength in its grace.
As Vishwaguruji reminds us, "Have faith, pray from your heart, and let the light of prayer illuminate your path."