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Matthew 6: 7-15
Today's reading gives us a grand prescription. Here Jesus teaches us how to pray. It is a formula for the most perfect prayer.
Step One. Acknowledge who you are addressing: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Step Two. Unite your will to God's: thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven. Step Three. Petition God modestly for both your material and spiritual needs: give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Step Four. Ask for fortitude and protection: and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
We have all heard it. Some of us have likely prayed it-- but do we understand it?
Step One. Acknowledge who you are addressing: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Step Two. Unite your will to God's: thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven. Step Three. Petition God modestly for both your material and spiritual needs: give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Step Four. Ask for fortitude and protection: and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
We have all heard it. Some of us have likely prayed it-- but do we understand it?
What Does It Really Mean to Pray?
In it's essence, all prayer really is is our soul's conversation with its Creator. The Church and Tradition have passed along many beautiful prayers, and Scripture is full of them.
But, sadly, I have found that one of the things that people who question their faith struggle with is the misunderstood notion of prayer. These people are cynical and view memorized or rote prayer as meaningless and even disingenuous. In some instances, they may be on to something. But, I have to believe that focusing the mind on God can't be all bad? Truth is that pray is not really about the words you say so much as it is about the intent of your heart.
What I can say for certain is that some of my most powerful prayers have been the simplest. "Thank you." "Help me, please." "I love you." Offer up your prayers like you are talking to a friend-- your best friend.
But remember that a friendship requires the time and attention of both friends. God is always with you-- even if you don't necessarily see him or feel him. Have faith. Spend some time with Him-- whether you have the grace to see Him in the Blessed Sacrament or if you simply reach out to Him in your mind. Talk awhile with a friend.
But, sadly, I have found that one of the things that people who question their faith struggle with is the misunderstood notion of prayer. These people are cynical and view memorized or rote prayer as meaningless and even disingenuous. In some instances, they may be on to something. But, I have to believe that focusing the mind on God can't be all bad? Truth is that pray is not really about the words you say so much as it is about the intent of your heart.
What I can say for certain is that some of my most powerful prayers have been the simplest. "Thank you." "Help me, please." "I love you." Offer up your prayers like you are talking to a friend-- your best friend.
But remember that a friendship requires the time and attention of both friends. God is always with you-- even if you don't necessarily see him or feel him. Have faith. Spend some time with Him-- whether you have the grace to see Him in the Blessed Sacrament or if you simply reach out to Him in your mind. Talk awhile with a friend.
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