I am often asked why I attend a religious service at least once a week (usually Sundays). Some ask if it is just the requirement of being Catholic. Others wonder if it’s really a good use of time and what do I get out of it?
In my case, I don’t view it as a requirement. I also don’t view it as just a question of what I get out of it. Rather, I think about it as what I’m putting into it. In the crazy world we all live in, I find it remarkably helpful to take a short time out of a busy schedule and ask the questions I think about very often:
- What are my values?
- What is my purpose?
- What really matters?
Regarding the question of whether it’s a good use of time to attend a religious service, I immediately reflect on the simple fact that we all have 168 hours in a week. I remind myself that spending two hours a week on something this important is still only one percent of my time.
It is not clear to me that I can possibly reflect on what is important if I’m spending any less time on it than that.
Yesterday morning’s service was a good example of being exposed to some important wisdom. Our pastor referenced how we sometimes may not receive what we ask for, and yet we receive exactly what we need.
He quoted the words found on the body of a soldier in the American Civil War that has become known as the “prayer of an unknown soldier.”
Prayer of An Unknown Soldier
I asked God for strength that I might achieve
I was made weak, that I might learn humility to obeyI asked for health, that I might do great things
I was given infirmity, that I might do better thingsI asked for riches, that I might be happy
I was given poverty, that I might be wiseI asked for power, that I might have the praise of men
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of GodI asked for all things that I might enjoy life
I was given life, that I might enjoy all thingsI got nothing I asked for – but everything I hoped for
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answeredI am among all men, most richly blessed!
After reading this prayer several times, I am now ready for the week! Upward and onward!
Have a great week!
Harry
Good am
I appreciate your letter about” why do I attend weekly service ”
And also, ending with the prayer of the unknown soldier
Interesting when I reread the soldier’s words, I recognize so many verses from scripture in his thoughts
“do not worry about tomorrow for today will take care of yourself
my father and heaven knows what you need” from Matthews book
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding”
From the third chapter of proverbs
again again the soldier reflects scripture in his prayer which makes me wonder if new the Bible
It sounds as if he/she did
I have gleaned in subtle ways that one of your ministries is to bring the Lord into the business world and I appreciate that Harry
I am certain God wants us to share our faith in Christ with those we are in contact with throughout our day both believers and unbelievers
Thank you again for your ticket search that you did so fervently
I hope all is well
From highland park
have a good day
Harry, it is hard for anyone to keep up with you, but your openness, beliefs and actions inspire those you come into to do good.