Chaplains on the River

In the world of amateur radio, “ham” radio operators are proud of their ability to respond in emergencies and keep vital communications going when the infrasturctures of telephone, internet, and cell phones may be disrupted. Their motto is “When All Else Fails…Amateur Radio”. Hams prepare and practice often with organized communications nets and exercises so that they will be ready when the need arises.

How are you doing in being prepared for those times in your life when unexpected illness or catastrophic event shakes your foundations? Where would you turn when all else fails? Do you have a plan of action that has been rehearsed until it is “down pat?”

When all else fails…PRAYER! Prayer is talking and listening to God. Prayer is going to the best friend any of us has and seeking counsel and wisdom. Prayer seems deceptively easy - just talk to God and listen. If it were only so simple! Many of us have trouble putting into words what we are feeling, and are really challenged when it comes to waiting and listening. In amateur radio, each station must tune to the same frequency for a contact to be made. In prayer…with practice..we come to understand how God speaks to us and learn to focus in on receiving.

So…just as amateur radio operators practice to be prepared…we need to begin the frequent practice of prayer so that we are prepared for those eventful moments when all else fails…and we turn to God in prayer!

(Chaplain Mike Hammett holds General class amateur radio license KC5PSR.)