Old Habits

Some years ago I was preaching for a small worship service at a nursing home. The attendees were residents with a background in the Christian faith, but many suffered from dementia and were largely unresponsive during the service.

At the conclusion of my brief message, I began to pray, but I happened to start praying with the words, “Our Father….” I didn’t intend to lead us in the Lord’s Prayer, but those opening words triggered something deep within many of the residents. Even some who had given no indication of comprehending anything joined right in on cue!

Some of those residents were not capable of carrying on a conversation, but the words of the Lord’s Prayer were deeply etched into their memory, and easily made their way to the surface of recollection.

This amazing experience taught me a lot about developing the right kinds of habits. I’m all for freshness and creativity, but there’s also value in routine, habit, and even some ritual. God often works through the well-worn paths that we create in our lives. Whether it’s through our daily schedule, certain activities, or even the words of a prayer, habits have a way of reaching us deeply and slowly shaping us.

How have you seen God working through your habits?

Blessings,
Pastor Paul Cook