And when you come before God, don’t turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat? Here's what I want you to do: find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace. (The Message)
Matthew 6:5–15
Katharine, Caroline and I sat down to read this passage and we reflected on its importance and its meaning. We believe that this passage states that you have to be modest when you pray—don’t try to make yourself boastful. Praying is a discussion between you and God, not between you and everyone else.
Some of the places where you can pray are silently in church, in your house and in the outdoors. In particular situations and in certain times, it may be inappropriate to pray publicly in the middle of 5th Avenue in New York City, or in the middle of school, work, or any other social events.
Praying to God makes you a star in his eyes and that is all you should need. You don’t need to be recognized by everyone to feel the need to pray. Praying should be simple and honest. Don’t be tempted by others around you to make praying a big deal because it is not. It is just a talk with God, something personal that you should do daily. It should be something you look forward to and do because you want to, not for the attention.
Katharine Milbradt, Karen Furr, and Caroline Pickart
