As I contemplated writing this article on prayer, the words, while it is day, were
impressed on my heart and mind. The words of the Lord Jesus, as seen in John 9:4,
say, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh,
when no man can work.”
Various commentators define the phrase, “while it is day,” as opportunity or even life
itself. Jesus spoke of His time and opportunity. We, today, have our time and
opportunity.
The phrase, “work the works,” in the Greek reads, “ergazesthai ta erga.” The
interpretation of that is basically defined as doing the work or the business that needs
to be done. I personally believe that prayer is a work of the Christian.
The scriptures tell us to pray—
Pray for others.
Pray for laborers.
Watch and pray.
Pray and believe.
Pray always.
Pray for yourself.
Pray for forgiveness.
Pray in the Spirit.
Pray everywhere.
Pray when afflicted.
Pray effectually and fervently.
Pray against temptation.
Pray as the Lord taught.
Pray when sick.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
Pray morning, noon and evening.
Pray without ceasing.
Pray, pray, pray.
It is our business to pray!
It is not enough to read about prayer or think about prayer or talk about prayer, but it
is time to pray. Now!
For years, I have lived in a country that has an intimate relationship with their
cemeteries. (Romanians are of the Romanian Orthodox religion.) Anytime throughout
the day, the cemeteries are filled with people visiting the graves. They are often
praying for the dead. This is done by saying prayers such as this— “Into Thy hands, O
Lord, I commend the souls of Thy departed servants (names) and pray to Thee to grant
them rest, O Lord, in the place of Thy rest, where all Thy blessed saints’ repose,
where the light of Thy countenance shineth.” Also, they light white candles. The
belief is that it honors the departed and secures their eternal rest.
As I have observed these traditions for the dead, I have often thought how empty,
desperate and void those actions appear to me. Praying for the dead? Their day is past.
Their night has come. Which reminds me of the first Romanian funeral that I attended.
As the coffin was lowered into the grave, the mourners cried out, “It is dark in there.”
“It is cold in there.” Honestly, I was somewhat traumatized. I may have had those
thoughts as I have stood at a graveside, but I have never vocalized it loudly as they did
that day. Yes, it was dark in there. It was their night. It was the end of their life. But,
for you, and me it is day! It is time to work! It is time to pray!
Let us be about our Father’s business. Let us work while it is day. Let us pray while
we have life and opportunity.
Valita Jill Patterson