March 2026 

As you will have read in January and February’s editions, that following  Bishop Michael’s call to especial prayer in 2026, the Stay Connected letters  throughout the year will attempt to encourage and aide prayer inspired by an  example of prayer found in the Bible. 

This month I thought I’d share a technique that has helped me.  

Particularly when you don’t have the words to pray, it can be helpful to pray using the words of a  piece of scripture. If you have a particular dilemma, some Bibles, especially Giddeon’s Bibles have  a list of Bible verses (usually at the front) to match particular moods, worries and concerns.  However, following a more general, chronological pattern can also work surprisingly well too.  

As you read your Bible, let the words sink in, and discover or re-discover God’s words, actions and  promises and think about how they apply to your life. Hand over your concerns to God and let the  words renew your heart.  

Lent is a time to reflect on things that are going less well. To notice when our hearts and minds are  oriented the wrong way and to develop ways of overcoming the major stumbling blocks that keep  recurring.  

Attributed to King David, Psalm 51 is a guide for approaching God after falling short, written after  his affair with Bathsheba and his subsequent murder of her husband. David’s prayer is humble  and reconciliatory. He is completely honest and this reminds us we can bring anything to God in  prayer. Nothing is unmentionable with God – he knows it anyway!  

David takes full responsibility for his sins. His heart is broken with remorse. He doesn’t try to  justify what he’s done. The Psalm says: A "broken and contrite heart" is the true sacrifice that God  accepts. David falls on God’s mercy, pleading for forgiveness based on God's “unfailing love” and  "abundant mercy,” not on making things okay. When we are truly repentant, our relationship with  God is restored and we are offered opportunities to transform things going forward.  

Prayer is for true long-term positive change; it increases our trust in God and rebuilds our  relationship with him. After seeking forgiveness, David prays to be used to teach others God's  ways. Prayer prepares us to serve others and share God's mercy, remembering that neither David  nor anyone, can fall beyond the reach of God’s love and forgiveness 

Blessings Larissa