When Jesus told people to pray in secret, He didn’t mean that praying in public is wrong. What He condemned are insincere prayers made only to impress people. We may all sense that subtle temptation at times.

A group of delegates from a Christian conference stopped at a busy restaurant for lunch and were seated at several different tables around the room. Just before eating, one member announced in a loud voice, “Let’s pray!” Chairs shifted and heads turned. Then followed a long-winded “blessing” that did more to cool the food than warm hearts. Finally, amid snickers and grumbling, came the welcome “Amen.”

Contrast that story with another scene. A history teacher at a large state university was having lunch with his family in the school cafeteria. As they began their meal, their little 3-year-old cried out, “O Daddy, we forgot to pray!” “Well, honey,” said the man, “would you pray for us?” “Dear Jesus,” she began, “thank You for our good food and all these nice people. Amen.” From nearby tables came “amens” from professors and students alike who were touched by that child’s simple and sincere prayer.

May all our public praying be like that.  — Dennis J. De Haan