The anniversary of Hurricane Ian was this past week. One of the television stations devoted one entire day to the event, showing the devastation and the rebirth of certain areas like Ft. Myers Beach. The storm brought many to their knees in fear and thanksgiving for coming through it alive. And Jesus said: Come to me, all who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest… (Matt. 11:28)

The Book of Hebrews tells us that “Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father in Heaven interceding in prayer for us” (Hebrews 7:25). Jesus does this without ceasing! How different we are in our attitude of prayer! We say a few verses in the morning, perhaps a few at night, with little persistence. And Jesus says, “Come to me… and I will give you rest.”

As we prepared for the storm, many indeed turned to prayer. But prayer shouldn’t be something we only turn to when in need. A prayer relationship with God isn’t meant to be a fire extinguisher, something we grasp to put out the flames of a severe problem. Prayer is intended to be a way of life. Pray without ceasing…as Jesus did.

This year’s hurricane season is about over. But the most important thing to remember is this: God knows the future. He is in control. Pray always, not just when a storm is approaching.

About the author: Rev. Elizabeth L. Nelson is the priest at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in LaBelle.