From Broccoli to Babylon: Rediscovering the Power of Prayer in Crisis

In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, it's easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of prayer. “Mum, do I have to pray even when there’s broccoli?, a child's innocent question about praying over broccoli may bring a smile to our faces, but it also prompts us to reflect on the role of prayer in our lives. Have we, in our comfort and contentment, lost the urgency to pray? Or do crises, like the one we faced with the latest pandemic, remind us of the necessity of turning to God? This article delves into the timeless prayer of Daniel from the Bible, exploring how his words can guide us in our own prayers during these challenging times.

The Evolution of Prayer: From Routine to Relic

Once upon a time, prayer was woven into the fabric of daily life. Children began their day with prayers of gratitude and ended it with prayers of rest. Meals were preceded by blessings, and the community gathered regularly to pray. But as society has evolved, so too has our relationship with prayer. The saying "Need teaches us to pray" suggests that desperation can reignite our spiritual connection. Yet, paradoxically, extreme suffering can also make prayer feel impossible, as evidenced by a visitor to a concentration camp memorial who felt unable to pray after witnessing such horrors.

Daniel's Prayer: A Cry for Mercy Amidst Desolation

Daniel's prayer, as recorded in Chapter 9 of his book, offers a stark contrast to the casual "Dear God" we might use today. His words, "Ah, Lord, the great and awe-inspiring God," reflect the gravity of his situation. The Israelites faced the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, exile to Babylon, and the uncertainty of their future. Daniel's prayer was not just a personal plea but a collective confession: "We have sinned, done wrong, acted wickedly, and rebelled, turning aside from Your commandments and ordinances." He acknowledged their guilt and sought God's forgiveness and intervention.

The Modern Crisis: Parallels to Daniel's Plight

Today, we find ourselves in a different kind of crisis with the latest pandemic. Public life had been disrupted, and the future remained uncertain. Some attribute this crisis to human actions, pointing to our exploitation of nature and disregard for sustainable living. The call to change our ways—to consume less meat, use resources more wisely, and protect wildlife habitats—echoes the prophetic warnings of social injustice and neglect of God's commandments that preceded Israel's downfall.

The Role of Confession and Trust in Prayer

Daniel's prayer is not just about acknowledging guilt but also about trusting in God's mercy. Despite not being personally responsible for the sins of his ancestors, Daniel uses "we" to take collective responsibility. His plea, "We do not present our pleas before You based on our righteousness, but on Your great mercy," underscores his faith in God's unwavering covenant with His people. This trust is what we too must cultivate. We are part of God's people, and His mercy extends to all who trust in Him.

Prayer as a Source of Strength, Not Cowardice

Some may view turning to prayer as a sign of weakness or cowardice, but Daniel's example shows us otherwise. Confessing our sins and relying on God's strength does not diminish us; it liberates us from the burden of trying to save the world on our own. On Good Friday, God demonstrated the ultimate act of love and strength by overcoming His own wrath through the resurrection on Easter. This act allows us to address God intimately as "dear God," even in our moments of confession.

Hope and Action: The Path Forward

Daniel's prayer ultimately led to the Israelites' return to their homeland and the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple. This journey was fraught with challenges, but with God's help, they succeeded. Similarly, we can hope and pray for God's intervention in our current crisis. By trusting in God's help and maintaining our prayers, we can overcome this difficult time and move towards a more sustainable way of life.

Embracing Prayer in Our Lives

In conclusion, let us rediscover the power of prayer, not as a relic of the past but as a vital tool for navigating our present and future. Whether facing broccoli or Babylon, let us remember Daniel's example of humility, confession, and unwavering trust in God's mercy. As we continue to grapple with the challenges of our time, let us hold fast to the hope that with God's help, we can overcome. Let us pray, not out of obligation, but out of a deep-seated need to connect with the divine and find strength in our faith.

So, dear congregation, let us pray with the confidence that God hears us, and let us trust in the beautiful hymn: "God loves this world." Let us act with the assurance that our prayers can move mountains, and let us live with the hope that, with God's guidance, we can build a better future.

Amen.

Sermon held on 05/09/2021