When we pray

Did you know that nomads think that city people don't pray?

I'm sure there is an exception somewhere that proves the rule, but generally nomadic people groups are pretty religious. And further, even if they have a veneer of a world religion on top their basic core beliefs are usually animistic. Animism is a belief system where local spirits inhabit places and objects of significance, and it is the work of the people, sometimes with the guidance of a Shaman, to keep these spirits happy so that nothing bad happens.

So, as a group move they move out of the area of one spirit and into another's domain. Mountain passes and river crossings for example are always significant. There will be ritual involved. Often an offering, food, alcohol, blood, something shiny. And usually silence and reverence, no scratch that, FEAR.

I've been to places like these and I've seen the modern, urbanites rush past them, confirming the nomad's belief that city people are ignorant, and foolhardy.

Urban people don't stop. And we don't pray in these locations. We could! What if we got out of our car before going over that bridge, stood next to the pagan fearfully tying up coloured ribbons and calmly and vocally thanked the Most High God for granting us safe passage through his creation in the name of Jesus. I can't tell you how much I wish I had done that more often in Siberia!

Our realities are more often metaphorical in sense of journeys and fear when life is about to change. We still face crossroads.

Do we pray? Can it be an example to the unbeliever right beside us? I sure hope so. Please Jesus give me such an opportunity soon to speak your grace and love to someone battling anxiety and fear without the knowledge that you are higher, stronger and more loving than the powers they have been serving.

Lord, hear our prayer.

Urban people don't stop. And we don't pray in these locations. We could!