A
number of ministers were assembled for the discussion of
difficult questions; and among others, it was asked, how the
command to "PRAY WITHOUT CEASING" could be complied with.
Various suppositions were stated; and at length one of the
number was appointed to write an essay upon it to be read at
the next meeting.
A female servant being overheard all this and exclaimed,
"What! a whole month waiting to tell the meaning of the
text? It is one of the easiest and best texts in the
Bible."
"Well, well," said an old minister. "Mary, what can
you say about it? Let us know how you understand it.
Can you pray all the time?"
"Oh, yes sir!"
What, when you have so much to do?"
Why sir, the more I have to do the more I can pray"
"Indeed! Well, Mary, do let us know how it is; for
most think otherwise."
"Why sir," said the girl, "when I first open my eyes in the
morning, I pray, 'Lord, open the eyes of my understanding,'
and while I am dressing, I pray that I may be clothed with
the robe of righteousness, and when I have washed, I ask for
the washing of regeneration, and as I begin to work I pray
that I may have strength equal to my day; when I begin to
kindle up the fire, I pray that my heart may be cleansed
from all its impurities. And while preparing and
partaking of breakfast, I desire to be fed with the hidden
manna and the sincere milk of the word; and as I am busy
with the little children I look up to God as my Father, and
pray for the spirit of adoption, that I may be His child;
and so on all day. Everything I do furnishes me with a
thought for prayer."
Enough, enough!" cried the old divine, "These things are
revealed to babes, and often hid from the wise and prudent.
Go on Mary" said he, "pray without ceasing; and as for us,
my brethren, let us bless the Lord for this exposition, and
remember that He has said, "THE MEEK WILL HE GUIDE IN
JUDGMENT."
After this little event, the essay was not considered
necessary.
by W.S. Bowden