A number of ministers were assembled for the discussion of difficult questions; and , among others, it was asked, how the command to "PRAY WITHOUT CEASING" could be complied with. Various suppositions were stated; and at length one of the number was appointed to write an essay upon it to be read at the next meeting; which being overheard by a female servant, she exclaimed,
What! a whole month waiting to tell the meaning of the text? It is one of the easiest and best texts in the Bible."
"Well, well," said an old minister. "Mary, what can you say about it? Let us know how you understand it. Can you pray all the time?"
"Oh, yes sir!"
What, when you have so much to do?"
Why sir, the more I have to do the more I can pray"
"Indeed! Well, Mary, do let us know how it is; for most think otherwise."
"Why sir," said the girl, " when I first open my eyes in the morning, I pray, 'Lord, open the eyes of my understanding,' and while I am dressing, I pray that I may be clothed with the robe of righteousness, and when I have washed me, I ask for the washing of regeneration, and as I begin to work I pray that I may have strength equal to my day; when I begin to kindle up the fire, I pray that my heart may be cleansed from all its impurities. And while preparing and partaking of breakfast, I desire to be fed with the hidden manna and the sincere milk of the word; and as I am busy with the little children I look up to God as my Father, and pray for the spirit of adoption, that I may be His child; and so on all day. Everything I do furnishes me with a thought for prayer."
Enough, enough!" cried the old divine, "These things are revealed to babes, and often hid from the wise and prudent. Go on Mary" said he, "pray without ceasing; and as for us, my brethren, let us bless the Lord for this exposition, and remember that He has said, "THE MEEK WILL HE GUIDE IN JUDGMENT." After this little event, the essay was not considered necessary.