A pointed slogan, appearing on placards hanging in the windows of 19 American cities transit systems, speaks volumes about a theology of prayer. Ultimately, one s belief about prayer determines her prayer life. In preparing to plot and navigate a course for a life of prayer one needs a working theological map of the landscape. But be reminded, the best of maps is only a representation. While we are not dealing with an enchanted forest, prayer is mysterious terrain.
Any map is destined to be rough and potentially flawed.
We look to the Scriptures and the Spirit and the Saints to guide our work. Abraham prayerfully bargains with God over the lost city of Sodom. At the place of prayer, Moses negotiates the future course of a new nation, refusing to go forward without God. Jacob culminates his all-night wrestling match by praying for blessing and refusing to let go. Elijah s prayers seem to wield meteorological power.