The Power of Prayer

The Power of Prayer is a powerful little book of essays by various people and edited by Dale Salwak. The mix of authors is as varied as their "takes" on the subject of prayer. Well-known religious leaders, professors, a Jewish spiritual storyteller, a native American earth wisdom teacher and author, professors, doctors, an actress (remember Dale Evans?), and others are included. Jimmy Carter is there; so is Billy Graham, both of whom have a lot of name recognition. Mother Teresa's thoughts on prayer are there as well, and I particularly enjoyed reading them since I have such tremendous respect for this tiny little saint who lived and worked among the people of Calcutta. The secret to her life of service and love is simple; "I pray." Marianne Williamson, one of my favorite female authors is included, and she reminds the reader that "through prayer, we find what we cannot find elsewhere: a peace that is not of this world." Several of the contributors state that silence is needed if we want to more effectively commune with the divine. My favorite quote is from Stella Terrill Mann because of the advice she offers to all who are seeking answers. "If you have a desire to do a thing, count it as proof positive that you can do it no matter what the obstacles. Desire and fulfillment are two sides of one whole. If it were not possible for you to fulfill the desire, it would not be possible to entertain it either. The desire is God's silent plea to let Him work through you. It is God's silent guarantee that He will see you through if you will but begin." Some of the essays are "heavy duty" and require so much pondering and ruminating (love that word) that I'm certain I'll dip into this book frequently.

I recently read this collection of essays, and I must say it has drawn me to do research in other aspects of faith and spirituality. This collection looks at prayer from a lot of various points of view. It tends to see prayer in all actions as opposed to an action. It really made me think.

I really think this book is an excellent collection of insights from wise people of faith. Great thought provoking ideas and tips.

Salwak brings together a variety of perspectives on prayer, and the role of prayer in our personal and collective lives. The work is divided into five major sections, each dealing with a particular facet of the power of prayer. Twenty-seven individuals, ranging from Mother Teresa and Billy Graham to Brooke Medicine Eagle and Shuma Chakravarty, discuss their personal take on prayer. This volume is especially well-balanced by virtue of including individuals from all walks of life--preachers, doctors, teachers, Native Americans, Jewish story tellers, and more. A nice, pleasant read for anyone drawn to the topic.