BABBLING LIKE THE PAGANS?

 

I wonder what Jesus means here by “babbling like the pagans.” Yes, Jesus is talking about prayer and how He wants His disciples to pray, but why bring up the pagans? Perhaps there was a new trend of prayer at the time in Israel that took something from the pagan religions that Jesus did not like? We will probably never know the answer to this question and so we will be left to guess at its meaning.

Christianity is a religion that respects the intellect of the individual so maybe the phrase “babbling like the pagans” is a reference to some religions where there is little respect for the intellect and people are confined to rote prayers and practices that make little sense. The focal point of Christianity is really obedience to God’s will as our response to the offer of salvation and this has little to do with the multiplication of words at prayer. It is far better to spend one’s time of worship and prayer listening to the Holy Spirit as He leads and guides us in the ways of God. There is an old adage that speaks of the need to listen twice as long as we speak because we have two ears and only one mouth.

Jesus then provides His disciples with a very simple prayer that covers the whole gamut of the life of faith. I think Jesus wants us to go straight to the point when we pray and not waste time “beating around the bush.” Far better to say what one wants to say to God up front than babble on for hours before getting to the point of the process. Also, there is no point in trying to hide something from God with a multitude of unnecessary words when a few will do. Like any listener, God will be appreciative of the person who clearly and concisely places their petitions and concerns before Him.

Jesus’ prayers to His Father are always straight to the point and without unnecessary additions. Let us follow His example and use the time we will save for better and more productive causes. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

 

Reflection Question:

What is my prayer like? Do I ramble on and tend towards verbosity or do I have a good balance of clear and concise prayers and time to listen to God’s Word for my life?

 

Father, I know You will appreciate it if I keep my prayers clear and concise. Help me with the grace of the Spirit to grow in my ability to do this.

 

St. Leocrita, pray for us.