One Thanksgiving, when we were trying to keep little hands busy, we had our grandchildren make a turkey by painting their hands and fingers. It was a fun activity, best done on the back porch where messes could be cleaned with a water hose. Last week I came across the hand-turkey art pictured above. It reminded me of a simple prayer-hack using your hands. I call it the Five-Finger Prayer.
Your thumb is nearest to you. So begin your prayers by praying for those closest to you. They are the easiest to remember.
The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach, instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction.
The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders. Pray for elected officials, leaders in business and industry, and administrators. These people shape nations and guide public opinion. They need God's guidance!
The fourth finger is our ring finger. I was surprised to learn that this is our weakest finger. It should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain. This includes those who are homeless, disabled, elderly, marginalized and sick.
And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all. Your pinky should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.
The Bible instructs us, “I want everyone everywhere to lift innocent hands toward heaven and pray.” (1 Timothy 2:8) Make every day a day of prayer, especially the busy and messy ones.
-Dr. Jim Baldwin
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