Dialogue

Eric: "So is asking God to overthrow an unjust society a real prayer?"

Students: "Asking God for help in doing violence is sinful"

Eric: "What of the psalms and the prayers of Israel for victory over the enemy?"

Students: "They are God's chosen people, God does give them victory if they obey Him."

Eric: "So violence isn't wrong?"

The class splits on the issue.  They ask whether there were such prayers in the New Testament

Eric: "Jesus, when he is arrested, tells his followers not to do violence to rescue Him.  He remarks that, if he wanted to, he could command legions of angels to overcome His enemies.  But He does not wish to because He wants to work the Salvation of the world according to the Father's will.  Note that he could pray for military victory if he wished.  It would be a valid prayer.  But it is not a perfect prayer.  Likewise, the Israelite armies prayer for victory was real and good, because they expressed their true desires to God and trusted in His power and help. 

Similarly, we have our own stages of prayer.  Sometimes we pray to God for what we want, which is good and healthy.  But it triggers a process wherein which we move closer to God.  And through growing, learning, struggling, and developing we can reach the stage where, like Jesus, we ask not for what we ourselves want but what God wants."

Eric: "Why are you talking while I'm talking?"

Student: "Well, I -"  pause.

Eric: "Yes?"

Student: "Forget it, I was going to explain, justify why this guy was... while I... anyways..."

Eric: "You're sensing that there is no good reason for you to be talking while I'm talking.  Good.  There could be a good reason.  You might have a bomb strapped to your heart that will explode if you stop talking, that's an example..."