The Amidah
Great minds think alike! The Jewish people have long realized the power of unity. One area where they are great at this is in the unity of prayer.
It is recorded in the book of Daniel that he prayed three times a day and this was the custom of his people. They always prayed facing Jerusalem. Jews in diaspora still pray facing Jerusalem. Just because he had been carried off to Babylon it did not stop him from remembering to pray.
Around 450 BC when the Jews were allowed to return to Jerusalem by Cyrus the Great, a Great Assembly convened which included Ezra and Nehemiah. Some ancient Jewish writings state that Daniel and perhaps Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were also present. In this Great Assembly they composed what is called "The Amidah" or "Standing Prayer" (It was to be prayed while standing). Although this prayer has undergone some minor modifications, throughout the centuries, it remains basically in tact to its original composition.
In the book of Acts we read about the Apostles going up to the Temple during the hour of prayer, 3 PM, the 9th hour - the evening prayer (Acts 3:1-2). Also, in Acts chapter 2 on the day of Shavuot/Pentecost the Holy Spirit fell during the hour of prayer (Acts 2:15 - the third hour of the day, or 9 am). The hours of prayer were at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM; morning, evening and at noon. In unity this prayer would be recited. Like His disciples, Yeshua would have no doubt recited this prayer.
Think of the power associated with thousands and thousands of voices going up to God in unison in one mind and accord; making the same requests.
If you have never taken a look at "The Amidah" then you should really consider reading over it and incorporating it into your daily prayer regimen. It is a very powerful prayer and covers every area that a person should be praying for each day along with blessing Almighty God with almost every breath. Since this is not a Messianic prayer invoking the name of Yeshua, I just add His name where appropriate (like where it speaks about the throne of David).
A copy of it can be found here: https://www.elshaddaiministries.us/handouts/amidah.pdf
Hope you enjoy!
Leisa
