Book excerpt: Can we engage in prayer that is more effective, less harmful, and doesn't make God look bad? Theologian, therapist, and ordained pastor Mark Karris offers a first-of-a-kind book that explores petitionary prayer alongside theodicy, social justice, and personal moral responsibility. Is petitionary prayer an archaic and superstitious practice better left for old-time religious folk? Is there a more effective method of praying that doesn't put all the responsibility on God? Mark Karris tackles these questions and much, much more! Rich with theological wisdom, provocative insights, and enormously practical, Divine Echoes journeys through the investigation, deconstruction, and reconstruction of petitionary prayer. Karris also reveals a revolutionary model of petitionary prayer that he refers to as "conspiring prayer." Filled with real-life examples and case studies, this book will inform and equip both individuals and churches to pray transformative and subversive prayers that will increase God's love, healing, and beauty in the world.--Back cover.