Introduction
When we talk about “dangerous” prayers in the Catholic faith, it’s important to clarify that we’re not talking about prayers that could bring harm or evil. Rather, we’re focusing on prayers that might unsettle your life in ways you didn’t expect but could bring you closer to God. These prayers are “dangerous” in the sense that they open you up to God’s will, which may be different from your own plans. Let’s dive into these three prayers that could turn your spiritual life upside down.
“Thy Will Be Done”
Why It’s Dangerous
When we say, “Thy will be done,” in the Lord’s Prayer, we’re opening ourselves up to God’s plan, no matter what it may be. It’s an act of submission, and that can be a frightening thing. Imagine being so open to God’s will that you’re ready to go wherever He sends you, even if it means making significant life changes or sacrifices.
What the Church Teaches
This phrase forms a part of the Lord’s Prayer, taught to us by Jesus Himself (Matthew 6:10). According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “In Jesus, the Kingdom of God is at hand. He calls his hearers to conversion and faith, but also to watchfulness” (CCC 2612). The willingness to submit to God’s will is a central tenet of Catholicism.
Impact on Your Life
When you sincerely pray for God’s will to be done, you may find your life taking unexpected turns. Relationships, careers, and even your innermost desires might shift as you align yourself with God’s will.
“Come, Holy Spirit”
Why It’s Dangerous
Invoking the Holy Spirit is essentially opening your heart and soul to Divine intervention. The Holy Spirit is the bringer of gifts like wisdom, understanding, and courage, but these gifts often come with a calling to use them for the greater glory of God. The Holy Spirit may call you to a mission that you find challenging or intimidating.
What the Church Teaches
The Catechism states that “No one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God” (CCC 688, drawing from 1 Corinthians 2:11). The Holy Spirit brings us into the depths of God’s love and wisdom. Thus, invoking the Holy Spirit is not to be done lightly.
Impact on Your Life
By sincerely asking the Holy Spirit to come into your life, you may feel a nudge to do something outside of your comfort zone. This could mean anything from helping those in need to speaking openly about your faith. The Holy Spirit empowers but also transforms, and transformation can be an uncomfortable process.
“Take, Lord, and Receive”
Why It’s Dangerous
This prayer comes from St. Ignatius of Loyola and is a part of the Spiritual Exercises. The full prayer goes: “Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, all that I have and possess.” It’s a prayer of complete surrender. You’re offering up all you have and are, without reservations.
What the Church Teaches
Though not explicitly found in the Catechism, the idea of total self-surrender to God is entirely consistent with Catholic teaching. In a similar vein, Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).
Impact on Your Life
When you pray this prayer, be prepared for a life of challenges but also a life filled with grace. It might mean letting go of your plans, your comforts, and your idea of success to accept what God has in store for you.
Conclusion
These “dangerous” prayers have the power to reshape our lives according to God’s will, pulling us closer to Him in the process. By aligning our will with His, inviting the Holy Spirit’s transformative power, and surrendering ourselves entirely to God, we willingly accept both the challenges and blessings that come our way.
Each prayer is grounded in Scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church. They may seem simple, but they’re profound commitments that can change the course of your life. However, this change always brings us closer to God, and that is the most beautiful danger of all.