One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”
Luke 11:1
In just this single verse we hear several things – prayer was important to Jesus, and His disciples wanted instruction on prayer. There are many examples in scripture of Jesus praying. He was in prayer in the garden when the mob came to arrest Him (Luke 22:41-42), and He prayed for us even as He was crucified (Luke 23:34).
Jesus knew the power of prayer and gave His disciples the instruction they needed. As we explore the whole scripture passage for this week (Luke 11:1-13), we will learn as they did from His example and teaching. Prayer is simple and difficult at the same time.
Many people seem intimidated by prayer and often decline when asked to pray in public. Jesus understands our reluctance, but He wants us to be connected to God through prayer as He was. God wants us to bring everything to Him, our wants and needs, our joys and fears.
Heavenly Father, help us to know Your love through our prayers. Teach us the peace that comes through conversation with You, and let us practice it regularly. Amen.