“In my distress I called upon the Lord; to my God, I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice speaking, and my cry to him reached his ears” (Psalm 18:6 ESV)

Although reportedly awkward and rather clumsy, underneath lay ‘a heart of gold’ within Brother Lawrence. While serving 30 years in the war, he suffered several injuries that left him permanently lame. Even so, the battle scars did not hinder his work nor his gratefulness toward God. Soon after the war ended, he entered Paris Carmelite Monastery. Seemingly, a perfect place for him to send thoughts upward, and whisper prayers throughout the day.

While living in the Monastery, Brother Lawrence kept busy with kitchen duties including preparing and cooking food. Other responsibilities included cleaning floors, washing dishes, and repairing sandals for the Brethren. Living a hermits life, he flourished within the solitude of God’s presence and constant prayer doing his simple work onto the Lord with all his heart. His focus on God and honest work transformed his demeanor to the point of attracting a variety of visitors. Especially people who needed spiritual guidance. Word soon spread leading more to come seeking his godly advice. The wisdom he passed on to them, in conversations and letters, would later be the basis for his book “Practicing the Presence of God.”

Clearly, Brother Lawrence demonstrated that the “true spirit of prayer fares better than the habit of prayer.” While positioning a posture of lowliness, he fought every battle on his knees. In quietness and thankfulness, he obeyed and became a ‘pray without ceasing’ ambassador (I Thess 5:17). His simple life inspired many focused on God inspired many.

*Dear Lord, teach us to pray like Brother Lawrence, to worship, to breathe your name daily. Let us soak in your goodness and relentless care “The Lord is near to all who call upon him. Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.” (Isaiah 65:24)

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