NO matter how busy Jesus was ministering to people who were sick and hungry for his words of wisdom, he would never skip praying. He would go to a deserted place to be alone with his Father. It was this practice that gave him the energy and passion to address the needs of God’s people.
Being alone with God is a treasure we must cherish. It is during these moments that we can experience peace of mind and heart. This time does not take away from our productivity; instead, it grounds and centers us, focusing us on the most essential aspects of life.
Recently, I discovered some wisdom from reading Benignus O’Rourke’s book, “Finding Your Hidden Treasure: The Way of Silent Prayer.” Rooted in the teachings of St. Augustine, the book reminds readers of the essence of prayer – not in finding God outside of ourselves, but within our own hearts. O’Rourke writes:
“The foundation of true prayer for Augustine lies in Jesus’s promise that he would dwell in us, as he said to his disciples, ‘Make your home in me as I make mine in you.’ Following his last meal with his disciples, Jesus assured them: ‘I shall not leave you as orphans; I shall come to you. Soon the world will no longer see me, but you will see that I live, and you will live too. On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you’ (John 14:18-20).”
“O’Rourke further elaborates:
“That is why Augustine encourages us: ‘Wherever you are, wherever you may be praying, the one who hears you is within you, concealed within. The one who listens is not merely beside you; there is no need to wander or strain to reach out to God as if you could touch Him with your hands. Wherever you are, wherever you may be praying, the one who hears is within you, concealed within.’”
The book offers an enlightening perspective. We do not need to search for God externally; He is already within us, residing in our hearts. Therefore, we must delve into our hearts to discover Him. This is indeed the essence of prayer.
It requires practice to perceive the light of wisdom. Sometimes, it involves setting aside our rosaries or novena books and simply being silent. It is about mindfully listening to the God who resides within our hearts – no words needed, only moments of loving presence with God within us.
May you discover this hidden wisdom. May you always feel the comforting embrace of God’s healing grace!
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.
