The Alphabet Prayer

In 2001, Peter and Linda were ready to start a vacation when Peter herniated two discs in his spine and was flat on his back for three months. The pain of the injury was crippling and overwhelming. Quieting down seemed more nurturing than acting up. Peter's years spent as a Quaker learning to listen and ponder in silent worship came to his aid. He prayed and, at one point, distinctly felt the remarkable hand of God.

He had read the Bible before, but now turned to Psalms and the Gospels wit...