Reflection Questions: Chapter 8, "Prayer"

Questions for reflection while reading Chapter 8, "Prayer", pp. 101-113

1. The authors note that "prayer is in many ways the criterion of Christian life. Prayer requires that we stand in God's presence with open hands, naked and vulnerable, proclaiming to ourselves and to others that without God we can do nothing" (102). They also observe that doing this is "difficult in a climate where the predominant counsel is 'Do your best and God will do the rest'" (102). What barriers do you see standing in your/our way(s), making it difficult for us to stand in God's presence in our vulnerability? After meditating on these challenges, present them to God in prayer (what a challenge in itself!).

2. How is prayer "the first expression of human solidarity" (106)?

3. How do the authors equate "prayer" with "breaking of the bread"?