Laying in bed every night, the litany of requests and prayers constantly play through my heart and mind. This list of prayers that I am continually waiting for God to answer in my own life. I know that God hears them but before morning light and my eyes are barely open, the litany continues to play over and over again.
According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, a litany is defined as “a prayer consisting of invocations and supplications by the leader with alternate responses by the congregation”; or “a resonant or repetitive chant.”
Throughout our lives, there are so many litanies that we lift up to God. Litanies that are not just lifted up at church, but litanies that are said each and every day throughout the world. Litanies that play on repeat from one heart to the next. Litanies that embody our dreams, hopes and desires. Beautiful litanies that echo the heart of who God is; and also beautiful litanies that transcend time and space.
These litanies tell the story of who God calls us to be as people of prayer.
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all human understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7–NRSV).”
In other words, God calls us to lift our prayers; to voice our litanies out loud or in the depths of our heart. Because when we say those prayers; those litanies, a beautiful elegant litany of thankfulness and gratitude is opened to the world.
Linking up with Kelly and the Ra Ra linkup, Holley and Coffee for your Heart and Kristin and Porch Stories.
Kinda like “never say amen.” I ‘litany’ all day long!
Right?!?! Me too!! Me too! xoxo
Love this idea and definition of litanies. I’ll have to remember it! Thanks for the beautiful way you put this here.
Thanks Bethany!