Sometimes our prayer is a projection of our own self-hatred rather than a communication with God. For instance, Abraham began interceding for Sodom and Gomorrah by saying: "See how I am presuming to speak to my Lord, though I am but dust and ashes!" (Gn 18:27) Later in his prayer, Abraham begged God not to become impatient (Gn 18:30) or angry (Gn 18:32) with him, as if God could be impatient or angry. Abraham projected his own problems onto God. Eventually, Abraham quit interceding for Sodom and Gomorrah. He may have thought these cities didn't deserve to be saved or that God wouldn't save them, although God had repeatedly said He would. Abraham was impatient with God's timing.

When we pray, may we not project our self-hatred, problems, and limitations onto God. Rather, may we let God project His love, holiness, and power onto us. We pray not in order to change God but to allow Him to change us. Praying is not God-changing; rather, it is "us-changing," which makes it life-changing. "Lord, teach us to pray" (Lk 11:1).

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 20, 2016

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