As long as Moses kept his hands raised up, Israel had the better of the fight. Exodus 17:8-13

When people find it hard to pray, they seek ways to improve. Sometimes a simple change can bring great benefits to our prayer.

Most people derive benefit from prayer if they get into the right routine. For example, the celebration of the eucharist always follows the same outline. The predictability of the structure allows people to enter into the prayer. Some young people express frustration about the repetitive nature of the Mass, and that is understandable. But it takes time with repetition to let the mystery of the Mass sink into one’s spirit. Once it does, repetition provides a framework out of which people can pray.

Prayer at home can be improved through routine as well. Many people find it helpful to pick a certain time of day when they will go to prayer. Others find a certain place they can use - whether it is a room or a particular chair. The selection of time and place provides the structure in which prayer can happen.

Posture can also help prayer. Some people kneel. Others sit. Early Christians stood for prayer and lifted their hands aloft. The priest still uses this posture when he prays at Mass.

It is similar to the posture taken by Moses when Amalek waged war against Israel. As long as Moses’ hands were outstretched, Israel had the better of the fight.

If we are fighting at prayer, a minor adjustment in place, time or posture might help.