蜜芽传媒

Furaha Mussanzi, singer and songwriter, reflects on walking in prayer, to celebrate 55 years of Prayer for the Day from Bradford, the City of Culture.

Good morning.

Once a week I challenge myself to go on a prayer walk around my neighbourhood. I try to rise early before the rush hour traffic, when the air is crisp, and the bird songs are clear, and I go in the direction that my spirit leads. I place my phone in my pocket, because I insist on counting every step, and take a deep breath, as I count my blessings and focus on being in the moment.

I begin, by thanking God for my body, for being healthy enough to move, for my heartbeat, and the gift of life and a new day. I notice every person I come across, bin men, parents, teachers and shop assistants, and make an effort to show eye contact and greet them, reminding myself that they too are precious, seen and loved by God. I don鈥檛 know where they are coming from, or where they are going, or have any insight about the trials and triumphs of their lives, but just for an instant, I hold them on my heart, and I keep walking.

Often, I walk past a number of care homes and take a moment to pray for our health care system, and thank God for all those who work tirelessly to care for those who are ill, elderly or vulnerable. When I walk up a steep hill, I pray that God gives me the strength, courage and wisdom, to represent him wherever I go, and to extend his love and grace to everyone I encounter.

So today, I pray that God opens my eyes, not just on my walk, but always, to notice someone, or something to pray for.

Amen.