Too Busy to Pray

by Jim Burns

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. — Mark 1:35

A Christian youth worker I know recently described the students in his youth group: "Our students are just too busy to get serious with God." Can you identify with this? Most of us aren't evil. We aren't trying to stay away from God on purpose. We are just too busy to pray.
Have you ever had a conversation like this with God?

God: I'd like to spend some time with you today, Jim.

Jim: Great. I'd love to.

God: How about right now?

Jim: Right now? Uh, I'm a little late for school. I'll catch you later.... I promise.

God: Okay, I'll be waiting.

Jim: I'll see you at the lunch break.

God: Okay, I'll be waiting.

God: Hey Jim, I missed you at lunch. Your body was there but your mind wasn't.

Jim: I know. I'm sorry. I've got so much to do and so much on my mind. I just forgot to pray.

God: Are you ready to spend some time with me now? I know you only have a few minutes before class.

Jim: Well, uh, er, I haven't studied for my math test. I'll have to catch you later.

God: Okay, I'll be waiting. (After the 10:00 p.m. TV show)

God: Jim, I love you and I miss you. I've been waiting all day to be with you, Jim. Let's just focus for maybe five minutes.

Jim: I know. I'm sorry. I really feel bad. I'm so busy. Thanks for being so understanding, God. Thanks for... (Jim falls asleep.)

God: Oh well, maybe he'll have time for me tomorrow.

Are you too busy to pray? If you are, then you are simply too busy. God loves you and wants regular time with you because you are so special in his eyes. When is your special appointment with God? This may seem overly simplistic but it is true: People with a regular time with God will have a closer relationship with Him.

Promises, Promises

Paddy was driving down the street in a sweat because he had an important meeting and couldn't find a parking place. Looking up to heaven he said, 'Lord take pity on me. If you find me a parking place I will go to Church every Sunday for the rest of me life and give up me Irish Whiskey!'

Miraculously, a parking place appeared. Paddy looked up again and said, 'Never mind, I found one."

by Bill Rayborn