Recently, I placed a new book among my devotional materials: Kind Father by Jason Leininger. I find myself reaching for this prayer book—which, quite honestly, surprises me. Like me, you might ask, “Why a book of written prayers when I can speak my own personal, spontaneous words to God?” I discovered the answer in this book.
Jason’s collection contains prayers for almost every circumstance, emotion, and setting. Taken from more than 40 ancient and contemporary sources, the prayers—long and short— speak in both formal and relaxed language. A long section, Lectio Divina Prayers, helps us pray through the sacred content of Scripture. Jason’s own prayers based on the Word lift the heart to God in an honest, conversational tone.
Sometimes life’s difficulties make us unable to do more than repeat “Abba, Father.” Those two words become incense rising to God, but sometimes I’d love to offer my Holy Creator beautifully crafted language. I’ve found phrases that capture exactly—and more meaningfully—what I wish I could compose. Whether calm or afraid, happy or discouraged, joyful or repentant, I can use Kind Father to express my emotions, praises, and requests to God.
In the introduction, Jason encourages, “…add your own words… write in the margins an addition to the prayer.” I have done that. One morning, perhaps only a line or two will mirror my thoughts. At another time, an entire prayer is perfect. Such was my case today as I lifted my heavy heart to the Lord for our nation and the anguished people in faraway lands.
“May God, in his mercy, lead us through these times; but above all, may he lead us to himself.” —Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Letters and Papers from Prison