In movies and stories people sometimes say, "It's hopeless - all we can do is pray!" They think that prayer is what we do last, when all else has failed. In reality, prayer is the most powerful tool we have and it is what we should do first rather than last! When the people of Israel are threatened with destruction at the hands of an enemy, prayer is Esther's first action. She knows that alone there is little she can do, but with God all things are possible. Her fervent prayer is heard and she is inspired to say and do the things necessary to save her people.

The gospel also emphasizes the power of prayer. Jesus promises us that when we pray, ask, seek, and knock, we will not be disappointed. If ordinary people with all of their faults and weaknesses know how to provide for the needs of their children, how much more will a perfect and loving God provide for us. It is not that God is unaware of our needs. God respects our freedom and does not interfere unless He is asked. With the power of God flowing through us, all things are possible. But this does not mean that we should be lazy or just use God to get what we want. We should work as if everything depends on us and pray as if everything depends on God.