As a core element, wood has common qualities like strength, resilience, and ability to grow. In the natural world, the element of wood might include a variety of species that share those qualities. Roots. Stem. Flower and leaves. These can be found in grasses, herbs, flowers, and trees. Similarly, prayer takes on core qualities, even as it is diverse in expression. When we study the parts of wood species we see even more parallels between prayer and wood.
Prayer is Like Earth
The earth is composed of many layers. From core, to mantle, to crust, to topsoil, to atmosphere, each concentric layer serves a distinct purpose in supporting life. Similarly, prayer is complex, with many layers. From the layers of a specific form of prayer, such as lectio divina, to the layers that accumulate over a lifetime, prayer also sustains the flourishing of life.
Prayer is Like Air
Usually, air is invisible. Though it is not clearly seen, its influence is made known by the things it holds and the objects it moves. Similarly, the influence of our prayer is usually not immediately known. We ask God for things, and we don’t always get them. We cry out to the universe, and we are unsure if our anguish is heard. We send good intentions toward others, and yet they are not always visibly healed, nor do we always do the good we may intend. Nonetheless, both air and prayer are real. Though most often invisible and unknown, the fire and fruit of their influence really does hold and move things in the world.
