Our scripture this morning is Matthew 6:9-13.
This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
As Christians, most of us have learned the Lord’s Prayer in one form or another, most likely as children. Many recite it as part of worship, some say this prayer daily. The important part is understanding that Jesus gave us this example to teach us how to pray effectively.
It is a beautiful prayer that gives us the outline of what prayer should be about. We give praise and honor to God, and pray for the coming of His kingdom. We ask for our needs to be met, beg forgiveness and promise to forgive others. We pray for guidance and protection from the evil we have allowed into our world.
Whether we say these or similar words, or personalize our prayer accordingly to our current situation, God hears our requests. Of course, He already knows our circumstances and our needs better than we do ourselves. When we pray, both speaking and listening, we engage in honest conversation with our Creator. May His kingdom come to all of us.
Loving Lord, You have given us everything! We are thankful for the blessings of this world and the responsibility You have entrusted to us, to bring the Good News to everyone. Amen.