prayer before business -- a good if missing concept

(we're up to Daf 14....sorry, I skipped a few days of blogging. But I didn't skip the learning, just the blogging...oh well.)

Rav Idi bar Avin says in the name of Rav Yitzchak bar Ashyan: It is forbidden
for a person to do personal business before he prays in the morning because it
is stated: Righteousness will precede him and he will set his footsteps on
the way.

You know, the concept of regular prayer is one of the most precious elements that has been lost in the Reform movement (and probably the Conservative movement as well). It is the rare Reform Jew who wakes up each morning and says Modeh Ani, let alone a full morning prayer service. Not to be critical of Reform Jews. But what an interesting concept, maybe I'll print them up -- morning prayer cards to paste on the mirror. That way, while brushing your teeth or washing your face, you have the reminder to at least begin your day with prayer. It's not too much to ask, is it?

If you think about it, how many times do we get up in the morning and think...ugh, another day. And that sets the tone for the whole day! Try and consider....prayer would bring righteousness before God....

hmmm....

(a little preachy today, sorry.)