Va'eschanan - Israel's Prayers Are Answered

REB GOLDWAG:  What is unique about the prayers of the people of Israel and our relationship with Hashem? Why does King David ask that Hashem not answer the prayers of the Nations of the World? Why are those who worship idols 'close yet far,' while we who worship Hashem are 'far yet close?' Why do we try to preface our prayers for our personal spiritual and physical needs with mention of the Geulah-Redemption of our people from Egypt? Why are we referred to as 'a great nation who is uniquely close to Hashem whenever we call?'