Words 

   “Though we speak much we cannot reach the end, and the sum of our words is: “He is all’”. (Sir 43: 27) 

   We are at a disadvantage when trying to speak or think about the spiritual.  We are restricted by the words we use.  Words that cannot explain the unexplainable, that cannot find a so-called “proof” for the mysteries of God.  For the things of the spirit and miracles are mysteries and mysteries can rarely be explained in words.

   Imagine trying to have a meaningful conversation with someone who speaks a language we do not understand and who does not understand our language.  That is our dilemma when we attempt to commune with God.  Words simply aren’t enough.  We need to approach the almighty in His own language, the language of silence, listening for the still, quiet voice that is the voice of our Lord.

   Our prayers often end up being little more than a long-winded laundry list of wants and desires rather than the gratitude and love we should be offering to God.  We far too often pray not for His will, but for our own.  St. Paul wrote, “For we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs that cannot be put into words.” (Romans 8: 26)

   This is not to say that verbal prayers should be abandoned, but we also need to seek God through mental prayers, prayers of silence and times of contemplation.  St. Therese of Lisieux said, “For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.” 

   When we pray with not only our words, but with our heart and soul seeking the wisdom and the will of God He will do the rest.  He will come to us in love, showing us the way and helping us to better know and love Him.