A habit is often thought of as a routine, something we do without thinking, like brushing our teeth, tying our shoes or telling our family we love them. Yet, there is another kind of habit that’s equally powerful but less visible: the habits of the heart, particularly in our prayer life.
Many look to the example of Mary in the way she lived her vocation, embodying simplicity, humility, and a deep trust in God. Habits, both visible and invisible, shape who we are over time. Religious habits are not just garments, but symbols of consecration to God, reminders of a deeper calling. Likewise, prayer habits – whether formal or spontaneous – are ways we clothe ourselves in God’s love and presence.
It’s possible for our prayers to become routines, unconsciously recited like the ‘Hail Mary’ or the ‘Our Father.’ While these prayers are foundational, our Christian spirituality invites us to pray as Jesus prayed – not just with words, but with our whole heart, soul, mind and strength. Mary pondered the mysteries of God (Luke 2:19), living prayerfully in each moment. Her prayer wasn’t about length or formality, but about deep attentiveness to God’s movements in the ordinary.
As creatures of habit, we are shaped by what we do repeatedly. Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Let us seek to develop prayerful habits with the simplicity of Mary, who lived intentionally, trusting fully in God’s love.
by Nathan Ahearne
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