Our scripture this morning is Matthew 6:9-13.
Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.’]
Jesus gave us this beautiful prayer as an example of how to pray effectively. We repeat these words because they are His, but Jesus encouraged us to use our own words to converse with God as we would with each other. Prayer is intended as our way of speaking and listening to our Father in heaven.
God already knows everything about us and as our Creator He is never surprised. However, He wants to connect with us, to hear what we are thrilled about and what we fear. By expressing these things to Him we are strengthened and comforted.
Prayer makes us part of what God is doing in the world. We share with Him and He shares with us. Whether privately or as part of our worship, prayer is essential to our faith. Jesus showed us by His prayer life and teaching that those who truly follow Him are to connect with God regularly.
Loving Lord, we want to be faithful servants who know what You ask of us. Help us to be in touch with You always and to share Your love in our world. Amen.
