Expectant Prayer

On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding.When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.”

“Dear woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied, “My time has not yet come.”

His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

John 2:1-5, NIV*  [Read the whole story at Biblegateway.com.]

She doesn’t ask Him in so many words to do something about it, nor suggest how He solve the problem. She just brings Him the need. And I think it’s implied that she has a trust that He not only can but will meet it.

These verses remind me today that simply bringing Jesus the need, in quiet trust that He will want to meet it, is a valid form of prayer.

Whether the Spirit leads us with specifics in prayer, or we bring requests like Mary did here, or whatever the form(s) of prayer we use, let’s each be reminded to come in an attitude of expectant trust: He cares, He’s interested in our needs, and He has the power to meet them.

Loving God, thank You that You want us to pray: to praise and enjoy You, to confess, to bring needs. Sometimes you show us specific requests to make. Sometimes, like Mary, we simply mention our concern. Help us to always come in an attitude of expectant trust. And we praise You that You care, that You’re interested in our needs, and that You have the power to meet them.

This week’s song is the old hymn, “I Must Tell Jesus,” written by Elisha A. Hoffman, sung here in fine Southern soul style by Candi Staton.

*New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

5 thoughts on “Expectant Prayer

  1. Ginny Jaques

    This is a great reminder, Janet. Why do we forget the simplest things in our spiritual walk? I need to go back to simple, day after day. I love that I need to bring the need to Jesus, in quiet trust that he wants to meet it. I’m going to be meditating on that today.

    Reply
  2. Stephanie

    Wow! This is powerful! I had never really thought of it this way. You’ve given me a whole new way to pray. Thanks, Janet.

    Reply
  3. janetsketchley

    Ginny, Stephanie and Belinda–sorry to be slow replying. I sneaked away for a mini vacation. Sure needed it!

    I need to keep this simple prayer in mind too. I’m glad it’s resonating with you too.

    Blessings to each…

    Reply

Leave a Reply to Stephanie Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.