558. What are the sources of Christian prayer? (part 2 continuation)
(Comp 558 repetition) They are: the Word
of God which gives us “the surpassing knowledge” of Christ (Philippians 3:8);
the Liturgy of the Church that proclaims, makes present and communicates the
mystery of salvation; the theological virtues; and everyday situations because
in them we can encounter God. “I love
you, Lord, and the only grace I ask is to love you eternally. … My God, if my
tongue cannot say in every moment that I love you, I want my heart to repeat it
to you as often as I draw breath.” (The Curé of Ars, Saint John Mary
Vianney)
“In brief”
(CCC 2662) The Word of God, the liturgy of the Church, and
the virtues of faith, hope, and charity are sources of prayer.
To deepen and explain
(CCC 2655) In the sacramental liturgy of the Church, the
mission of Christ and of the Holy Spirit proclaims, makes present, and
communicates the mystery of salvation, which is continued in the heart that
prays. The spiritual writers sometimes compare the heart to an altar. Prayer
internalizes and assimilates the liturgy during and after its celebration. Even
when it is lived out "in secret" (Cf. Mt 6:6]), prayer is always
prayer of the Church; it is a
communion with the Holy Trinity (GILH 9).
Reflection
(CCC 2656) One enters into prayer as one enters into
liturgy: by the narrow gate of faith.
Through the signs of his presence, it is the Face of the Lord that we seek and
desire; it is his Word that we want to hear and keep. [IT CONTINUES]
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