Prayer During Driving is Encouraged
PD and I have taken note in the past few years how drivers are becoming more aggressive and inconsiderate of one another. Call me an alarmist, but my theory is that the "culture of death mentality" has crept into the personal habits of many, including the act of driving. When one disregards the sanctity of life, it's easy to be threatening, rude and disrespectful of others because the underlying assumption is that "my life has more value than yours."
The Vatican has just released the 10 Commandments of Driving.
"A 36-page document called "Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of the Road" contains 10 Commandments covering everything from road rage, respecting pedestrians, keeping a car in good shape and avoiding rude gestures while behind the wheel."
A must read for my 18 year old who just got his license, and the rest of us too!
posted by Russ Rentler, M.D. | 9:48 AM
6 Comments:
I'm not always the most patient of drivers... I could learn a thing or two from this article...
While driving with my 17 year-old son at the wheel, prayer is not only encouraged, it's compulsory! Were he to drive a hearse, the passenger would get out and hitch-hike a lift to the litchyard. :-)
I think your culture of death theory is not far-fetched at all. The fact that we are surrounded by people who are easily tossed about by every wind of culture that blows our way should especially not be lost on the Christian. It's like an infection. This is off-point a bit, but it's worth noting that some studies suggest that women who are "liberal" politically tend to have the majority of abortions. Since our parents have a strong influence on our thinking, there are many less "liberals" being born today, hence, the upsurge in young conservative-minded people. It is known as the "Roe Effect," and a strong case has been made for its validity. The point is that when we practice such selfishness, we ultimately contribute to bringing ourselves (and our nation) to ruin.
Thanks TJ! A must read for 52 year old drivers as well! : )
I wasn't a "road-rager" per se, butI have had many an "impatient moment" or two (or a few hundred) behind the wheel. I've found I drive better as a Catholic and have less moments of frustration behind the road than I did as an Evangelical. That might sound nutty but let me offer this brief thought.
I'm not blaming Protestantism on my driving habits, it has more to do with my character and formation of conscience than what denomination I was. However, what was becoming more and more "casual" a relationship with "my Jesus, my buddy" really did affect my outward behavior. I had subconsciously come to the conclusion that I could kind of "skate" and not be so concerned about my actions (when you're saved your saved, right?) Ironically, that was the very thing that ended up making me so disillusioned with Evangelicalism.
When there's a priest to sit before in confession and acknowledge my sins to, the accountability factor then alters my behavior for the positive whether behind the wheel or elsewhere. I blow it still, but not as much, and I'm quicker to repent, and ask forgiveness. I think my 'selfishness' is much more before me now and my need to 'die to myself' is more visible to me as a Catholic.
I still have problems with impatience on the road, and at home, but it seems that it's not near the amount I had as a "Burger King" Christian. When I worshiped 'my way,' went to "my church" 'my way, on 'my time' and drove 'my way' too, it wasn't a 'big deal' to lose my temper. However, now that I'm a Catholic, it's changed my thinking and me so much! I realize I'm living a life that is declaring to others, not only my belief in God, but I'm also declaring "Holy Mother Church"...not "my church" but HIS Church. I pray to be a better witness on the road, in the home, at work,etc. because I'm not living for me, worshiping for me, or serving the Lord 'my way.' I'm still working on the "lead foot" but my 'temper' has been tempered by the Eucharist the past 2+ years and therefore, my driving habits have been altered, along with the rest of my negative behavior. The "Sanctity of life" is more before me now as a Catholic than as a 'my way' believer, or so I've observed and that has influenced my thought patterns behind the wheel as in the work place, and at home. I've a long way to go, but when Christ comes into us each day in the Eucharist, ALL THINGS CHANGE and it's always for the better! "My way" is slowly being turned to "His way" as I cooperate with grace each day. Answer to impatience behind the wheel or foul mouth? The Eucharist and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. It's hard to leave the Adoration Chapel in a "huff!" : )
PAX,
susie
I laughed when i first heard about this through cnn, then i realized i am sometimes prone to road rage. the only time i really pray in my car is if it is snowing and i am afraid i am going to die. ha
A few years ago, I was sending up a Hail Mary and then.. I crashed into the car in front. My fault of course, not Our Lady's, since I was behind the wheel.
On the other hand, I have yet to crash while praying the Rosary while driving (Rosary ring or just my fingers), and some have been fruitful times. But.. I can't say I'd encourage anyone to meditate while driving. In fact, I think I'll stop doing that from now on. Just a prayer before I start driving away is best.
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