Chapter 9 - Page 126 - New Passion

    Reverend Morris began the services with a prayer. “Almighty God in heaven, may we feel your presence in our little church today.”

    His prayers were nothing like the way Jim prayed, but Jim felt sure God heard every word.

    “Bring angels with fast wings, God,” he prayed, “with the power to shower gifts on these people. Oh God, the first gift they need is the gift of understanding, that they may understand your holy word. Later, precious God in heaven, send them the gifts of prophecy and wisdom. Of teaching and preaching. Speak to their hearts, that they no longer be strangers to their creator. Thank you, God, for all the wonderful things you have done for them. We ask not for these gifts out of greed, but rather to glorify you. In the name of your son, our savior, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.”

    Jim knew Reverend Morris deliberately said a short prayer so the non-Christian people wouldn’t lose interest. None of them knew anything about Jesus. Earlier, Reverend Morris had told Jim his theory: If they could learn that God hears short prayers as well as long prayers, maybe they would pray more often.

    Most preachers rehearsed prayers before church services, but Reverend Morris never did. He thought anyone who memorized a prayer to be said publicly was not praying to God, but praying to impress the congregation. Jim felt the same way. When Jim prayed, he felt as though he was talking to God just as if he were talking to his best friend.

    Reverend Morris asked Jim if he was ready to start the singing services, and Jim asked if they could sing two songs now and two songs after the sermon. Reverend Morris said he could do it in whichever way he wanted.