Praying with the Church: Following Jesus Daily, Hourly, Today

by Scot McKnight

But, the development of sacred rhythms for praying has never been about establishing exact rules and times. For some, of course, this is a part of their faith commitment. If we join a community that follows the “hours” of prayer, there will undoubtedly be specified times for prayer. But for the rest of us, sacred prayer rhythms are not required of us but are provided as a way for us to hallow each portion of each day—morning, afternoon, and evening—a way of offering that portion of the day to God, of keeping our lives centered on the invitation from God to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

prayer books express the personal faith of those who become attached to them. A prayer book is a best friend—and only a few persons in the whole world can qualify as a best friend. Prayer books are like that: They are intimate companions for our journey. Prayer books are deeply personal because prayer itself is deeply personal.