What is prayer?
the sounds of children’s voices
the warmth of hands touching
the newly sprouted crocuses reaching for the sky
the breeze rustling across trees
the sun breaking through clouds.
What is prayer?
the longing to feel God’s presence
the desire to sit with God’s word
the hope for days to come
the peace of a lit candle
the silence found in a deep breath.
What is prayer?
the sizzling of veggies over the stove
a warm cup of tea
fresh made bread delivered by a neighbor
sticky hands reaching for cookie dough
bread and wine, given and received.
What is prayer?
a cry for help
a plea for relief
a song of joy
a shout of praise
a whisper: are you there?
Is this prayer?
this note
and words
the tapping of keys across the screen
the waiting and wondering.
Could it be?
all of this and more,
moving through life
embracing
you
me
others
and the world
proclaiming God’s love
our worth
and name: beloved child
a prayer of God calling us good.
Kimberly Knowle-Zeller is an ordained ELCA pastor, mother of two, and spouse of an ELCA pastor. She lives with her family in Cole Camp, MO. You can read more at her website, follow her work on Facebook, or sign up for her monthly newsletter.