Reflection
Fixed prayer times have been around since ancient days. The practice of “Praying the Hours” – praying at set times of the day – still exists in many spaces in Christianity today. There are usually set prayers or scripture and a very general idea might historically has been to pray every three hours – beginning at 3 am and going on throughout the day. Praying in this way can help us to pause and be attentive to God throughout the day.
Today we invite you to set a time to pause in the afternoon or evening – around dinnertime. Use an alarm on your phone if needed. Pray Psalm 34 as your afternoon or evening prayer. Perhaps reading and praying it through at least twice or more.
Psalm 34:1-8
1 I will bless the Lord at all times;
his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
let the humble hear and be glad.
3 O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together.
4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.
5 Look to him, and be radiant,
so your[a] faces shall never be ashamed.
6 This poor soul cried and was heard by the Lord
and was saved from every trouble.
7 The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear him and delivers them.
8 O taste and see that the Lord is good;
happy are those who take refuge in him.