Dear Amy,

What happens when we pray? Can we actually change the Lord’s mind? How could we possibly improve upon his already perfect plans and purposes? Why even ask for anything in prayer then?

These are huge questions, and I can’t possibly answer them adequately. But here’s a reflection on this, somewhat of an excursion into make-believe, which nevertheless may help to shed some light.

Firstly, note that we are encouraged, nay commanded to pray, and to pray boldly.

… pray continually, …

― 1 Thessalonians 5:17

“If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

― Matthew 21:22

“You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.”

― John 14:14

Let’s imagine then. The Lord who created music has himself written the greatest work of all, the Symphony of Life, in 8 billion parts. He is both the composer and the conductor for its debut and only performance. It is a glorious, majestic work featuring players both unwilling and willing, with plunging depths and soaring heights, human folly and heavenly beneficence, sorrow and joy. It is a love story, the greatest of them all, a story of rescue and redemption of a wayward people, pieced together from fragments of ruined lives made whole.

As the billions of orchestral members play their parts with quite some improvising, the Lord hears the prayers of the saints, our prayers, and delights to weave them in to the score, making amendments and annotations with his divine pencil even as the music unfolds, taking our imperfect petitions and making them part of his perfect plans and purposes as it pleases him. And with each, smiling down on his beloved ones with such affection, like a proud father. Smiling on us, who are contributing somehow to his glorious work.

Marvel at the mystery of his ways, Amy, praising the Lord for his majesty, grace and kindness, and continue praying Kingdom prayers! 🙏❤️