In our busy lives, it’s often hard to find time for prayer. But when we look at the life of the Virgin Mary, we see an example of someone who was always in communion with God. Through her life, we can learn many lessons on how to improve our prayer life. This article is written in the light of the Catholic faith, drawing from both Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, aiming to offer 15 practical tips for a more meaningful prayer life, inspired by the Virgin Mary.
The Importance of Prayer in Catholic Life
The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that prayer is the “raising of one’s mind and heart to God or the requesting of good things from God” (CCC 2559). It is the vital means through which we grow closer to God. By following Mary’s example, we can nurture a more fruitful relationship with the Lord.
1. Begin with Humility
When the Angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would be the Mother of God, she responded, “I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Mary accepted God’s will with humility. So, the first lesson from Mary’s life is to approach God humbly in our prayers.
2. Consistent Prayer
Tradition tells us that Mary was often found in prayer. This is consistent with St. Paul’s instruction to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Make prayer a consistent part of your daily life.
3. Accept God’s Will
Mary not only accepted God’s will but also embraced it. We too must seek to align our will with God’s. The Catechism instructs that we should pray to do God’s will on earth (CCC 2825).
4. Use Scripture
Mary’s Magnificat was essentially a compilation of Scriptural passages. When we pray with Scripture, we allow the living Word of God to permeate our being.
5. Remember Community
Mary visited Elizabeth after the Annunciation. They celebrated the greatness of God together (Luke 1:39-56). Include others in your prayer life, as we are a communal Church (CCC 959).
6. Silent Contemplation
After the shepherds visited Baby Jesus, Mary “kept all these things, pondering them in her heart” (Luke 2:19). Sometimes prayer requires no words, just quiet contemplation.
7. Seek Intercession
Mary interceded at the Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-12). Don’t hesitate to ask Mary and other saints to intercede for you.
8. Joyful Praise
The Magnificat is a beautiful hymn of praise. Mary teaches us to rejoice in God’s blessings and to express this joy in our prayer.
9. Offer Your Suffering
At the foot of the cross, Mary suffered terribly but joined her suffering to Christ’s. Unite your suffering with Christ’s, as the Church teaches that suffering can be redemptive (CCC 1505).
10. Fidelity in Prayer
Mary remained in prayer with the apostles in the upper room after Jesus’ Ascension (Acts 1:14). Be steadfast in prayer, even when answers seem delayed.
11. Be Open to the Holy Spirit
Mary was overshadowed by the Holy Spirit at the Annunciation (Luke 1:35). We too must be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in our prayers.
12. Trust in God’s Timing
Mary waited long years to understand the prophecies concerning her Son. God’s timing is perfect. We must trust in it when we pray (CCC 2734).
13. Invoke Mary’s Help
As Catholics, we believe that Mary prays for us and can help us grow closer to Christ (CCC 2679).
14. Be Specific in Your Requests
While Mary trusted God fully, she was also specific in her intercession at Cana. Be specific in your prayer requests while also being open to God’s will.
15. Final Perseverance
Mary was assumed into Heaven and is crowned as Queen. Her life shows us that a life dedicated to prayer can lead us to eternal joy with God.
Conclusion
The Virgin Mary’s life is a masterclass in prayer. As we emulate her humility, consistency, and openness to God’s will, we can hope to deepen our own relationship with God. Mary is not just a historical figure; she is a living guide who leads us closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. Through her example and intercession, may we all become better disciples of Christ and people of prayer.