Florida Catholic | Catholic Identity Series

CATHOLIC IDENTITY SERIES

Dynamic prayer

FATHER JOHN J. PASQUINI | SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA CATHOLIC

Published: 06.06.08

Catholic Identity Series

Father Pasquini is an author and columnist. He is the parochial administrator of St. John of the Cross Parish in Vero Beach.

Prayer has power to change individuals, people and the outcome of world events, but one must persevere in prayer if one is to experience the fullness of its power. We persevere because God responds to prayer in his own time and in his own way.

Perseverance in prayer is essential. We are all aware of St. Monica and how her prayers converted her son, St. Augustine, after decades of praying. Few people, however, remember that Monica’s prayers also converted her husband and her mother-in-law. Through Monica’s perseverance in prayer, she transformed her whole family, and through her son, Augustine, transformed much of the world!

Prayer is answered in God’s way and in his time. I once knew a lady who used to pray every day that she would win the lottery. When she would lose, she would complain that her prayers were not being answered. In reality, her prayers were being answered. Jesus was saying, “You do not need to win the lottery, at least at this time.” Jesus answers prayers in his way and in a manner that is best for our salvation. Winning the lottery for that person may have led to the loss of her soul! All prayers are answered, but in God’s way, in his time and in a way that is best for our salvation.

Prayer changes the outcome of events. The Battle of Lepanto in the Mediterranean was a turning point in the history of the world. Europe was on the verge of being conquered by a Muslim force from Turkey. The force was preparing to invade and convert Europe to Islam. The Holy Father was only able to gather up a small force led by Don Juan of Austria. Outnumbered four to one, all looked hopeless. The Holy Father called upon all the faithful to pray the rosary for victory. Against all odds victory was achieved. It is from this event that the feast of Our Lady of Victory is celebrated. Prayer changes the world, changes history!

Prayer changes the prayer. A little child once had a favorite marble. When his dad came home the little boy was crying because he lost his favorite marble. The father, not knowing what to do, decided to pray to St. Anthony with his son. The next day when the father came home from work, he noticed his son happy and at peace. The father asked his son whether he had found his marble. The son responded by saying, “No, dad, I didn’t find my marble, but that is OK because God made me not want the marble!” Prayer changes the prayer!

Prayer is dynamic and has the power to change individuals, people and the outcome of world events. Let us pray with perseverance and the acceptance of God’s providential will.

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