Day 13 - The Lord's Prayer

by Terry Klinker

Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:2-4

As we gather on this Lenten journey, it is fitting to reflect upon one of the most profound prayers in the Christian tradition, “The Lord’s Prayer.” This prayer, given to us by Jesus Christ, is not only a model for how we should pray but also a deep well of spiritual wisdom and guidance.

The Lord’s Prayer, also known as the “Our Father,” is found in two places in the New Testament: Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4. Jesus presented this prayer during the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew and in response to His disciples’ request to teach them how to pray in Luke. The prayer’s timelessness lies in its simplicity yet profound depth, which has resonated with Christians throughout the ages. Let’s break it down:

Our Father who art in heaven,

This opening line establishes our relationship with God as one of intimacy and reverence. Referring to God as “Our Father” denotes a personal and familial relationship, while “who art in heaven” acknowledges His divine and exalted nature.

Hallowed be Thy name.

To hallow means to honor as holy. This petition recognizes God’s holiness and invites us to revere His name in our hearts and actions. It reminds us to approach God with humility and worship.

Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

This line reflects our longing for God’s reign to be fully realized on earth. It is a call for God’s justice, peace, and righteousness to prevail in our world. By praying for God’s will to be done, we align ourselves with His purposes and submit our desires to His greater plan.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Here, we acknowledge our dependence on God for our daily needs. “Daily bread” symbolizes not just physical sustenance, but also spiritual nourishment. We trust God to provide for us and sustain us each day.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

This petition highlights the importance of forgiveness in our lives. We seek God’s mercy for our sins and commit to extending that same forgiveness to others. It is a reminder of the grace we have received and the grace we are called to give.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

We ask for God’s guidance and protection from the trials and temptations that can lead us astray. We acknowledge our need for His strength to resist evil and remain faithful to His path.

For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

The concluding doxology, though not present in all manuscripts, is a fitting end to the prayer. It ascribes to God all authority, power, and glory, reaffirming our trust and adoration for Him.

The Lord’s Prayer is a powerful and comprehensive prayer that encompasses all aspects of our spiritual lives. Personally, I cherish each communion Sunday, as we sing the Lord’s Prayer together. I find that the music enhances the meaning and impact of the words in this prayer. As we continue our Lenten journey, let us recite this prayer with renewed meaning and intention, allowing it to transform our hearts and draw us closer to God. May this prayer guide us, sustain us, and inspire us to live out our faith with humility, grace, and devotion. Amen.