Prayer as a Force for Change: Claiming Justice, Peace, and Unity

Do you feel powerless? In a world shaken by political unrest, uncertainty, and

division, it’s easy to believe that nothing we do can make a difference. "I’m not a Supreme Court justice or a senator, so what can I do?" you might ask. But make no mistake—apathy is an enabler. The truth is, each of us holds a profound duty to engage in spiritual social activism. And the best part? You don’t have to march in the streets or debate policies to make an impact, although those who are called to lead in that way certainly must! You can assert strength and solidarity from the quiet of your own home through the power of affirmative prayer.

Prayer as an Act of Spiritual Activism

Myrtle Fillmore, co-founder of Unity, taught that "prayer is not supplication, but an affirmation of Truth." Prayer is not passive; it is a deliberate alignment with Divine Principle, a declaration of Wholeness and Oneness that influences not only the individual but the collective consciousness. Ernest Holmes, founder of Science of Mind, echoed this sentiment: "There is a power for good in the Universe greater than you are, and you can use it." In times of turmoil, we are called not to retreat into despair, but to actively engage in shaping reality through our consciousness.

The Science of Prayer: Evidence from Medicine and Quantum Physics

Modern research supports the efficacy of prayer, not just as a spiritual practice but as an evidence-based intervention. Dr. Larry Dossey, a physician and researcher in the field of consciousness and healing, has extensively studied the effects of prayer. His findings demonstrate that prayer can influence healing, reduce stress, and even impact biological processes at a distance. One study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that patients who were prayed for experienced better health outcomes than those who were not, regardless of whether they knew they were being prayed for.

From a quantum physics perspective, the concept of entanglement—where particles remain interconnected regardless of distance—parallels the spiritual principle of Oneness. Just as subatomic particles influence one another instantaneously, human consciousness is interconnected in ways that transcend space and time. Our prayers, imbued with focused intention, ripple through this universal field of energy, creating real, measurable change.

Wisdom from the World’s Spiritual Traditions

The idea that thought influences reality is not new. The Upanishads, ancient Hindu scriptures, declare: "You are what your deep, driving desire is. As your desire is, so is your will. As your will is, so is your deed. As your deed is, so is your destiny." The Charaka Samhita, a foundational text in Ayurveda, acknowledges the connection between mind, energy, and healing, affirming that consciousness is the ultimate healer.

In Vedanta, the understanding of Brahman—the ultimate reality—teaches us that separation is an illusion. When we pray, we are not simply making requests; we are asserting our place within the Divine Whole and shifting the fabric of collective consciousness toward healing and justice.

Affirmative Prayer for Strength and Solidarity

Unlike traditional supplicatory prayer, affirmative prayer does not ask for change—it claims it. It is a bold declaration of Divine truth, affirming justice, peace, and unity in the midst of chaos.

Try this affirmative prayer:

I center myself in Divine Peace, releasing all fear and uncertainty. I recognize the infinite presence of wisdom and justice guiding all leaders and decisions. I affirm that love, integrity, and compassion govern our world. I see unity, healing, and equity taking shape now. With gratitude, I trust that Divine Order prevails. And so it is.

Stepping Into Our Role as Spiritual Activists

The call to spiritual activism is not just for mystics, monks, or ministers; it is for everyone. We cannot afford to believe that political and social issues do not concern us, nor can we underestimate the power of consciousness to effect change. The Dalai Lama teaches, "If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito in the room." Each thought, each prayer, each affirmation is a step toward the reality we wish to see.

In times of unrest, we are not powerless. We are vessels of Divine consciousness, co-creators of reality, and bearers of Light. Through the power of affirmative prayer, we rise—not in anger, but in unwavering truth. We claim justice. We claim peace. We claim Unity. And so it is.