I love the Old Testament.  I love reading it, studying it and when I was preaching, speaking from it.  And here’s a book that you may want to read in its entirety for the next month or so…the fifth book of the Pentateuch, Deuteronomy.    It was, of course, written by Moses, and contains three of his sermons.  The first part is a reminder of all that God has done for His people.  The second part of Deuteronomy reminds us of principles for Godly living, with the conclusion a call to commitment to the One, true God, the God of Israel.  In recent blogs we were talking about prayer.  Talking honestly with the Lord who so loves to hear from us.  He loves you and me as His own dear children.  And He loves it when we take time with Him…in prayer.It’s so special when Sue and I talk with our kids and grandkids.  Just to hear their voices and find out what’s going on in their lives.  You know what I mean.  But here we’re praying, talking with God. Prayer.     All kinds of prayer at all times of the day  and night for all kinds of needs with thanksgiving woven throughout the fabric of our lives.  Don’t worry about the specific words you use.  Just be yourself.  What could be better than just you and Him being together, sharing the good and difficult times with our Lord.  Knowing He cares for us, like when Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd who gives His life for the sheep.  He could give nothing more than all He had just for you and me who come to His feet in humble faith and trust and hope.  Now read Deuteronomy 4: 7 and get ready for some earth-shattering truth from God’s Word:  “What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to Him?”  Read that again…now, slowly.  Isn’t that just amazing…we have a God like none other as there is no other, and He draws near to us ‘whenever we pray to Him.’  Whenever…that’s right now, that’s always and 24/7, 365 (even in leap year!)…whenever–open to us, wanting to hear us, wanting to answer our prayers even before we think to ask.  Isn’t that amazing?  Any reason not to pray about what’s on your heart right now?  Let’s talk more about prayer next time!