Most of us like routines. Those of us who aren’t so keen on them tend to fall into routines anyway. Just to name a few: How our days begin, our route to and from work, what we eat and when we eat it, or how our days conclude. Also on that list for many of us? Prayer. We tend to pray in the same way using the same words. 

We may even like it that way—and there’s nothing wrong with routines! In fact, Psychology Today reports, “Good routines can provide structure to your day. A disciplined and humane routine can free your creativity by putting some daily tasks on autopilot; protect you from your more self-destructive impulses, and bring order and predictability to your life.” 

However, there is a shadow side. “Even good, healthy routines can drag us down if we don't break them and re-form them from time to time.” 

Is that true for prayer as well? If so, why would Jesus tell us to pray in such a particular way? As we ruminate on that, we may find ourselves wondering what is the purpose of prayer? Who is prayer for? What even does prayer do? 

With the Gospel of Matthew as our guide, Pastor Dave will consider those questions and more this Sunday, September 25th, in his sermon, “Ruining Our Routine.” 

Worship with us Sundays at 10:00am in person or online via our Woodridge UMC YouTube Channel. All are welcome!