Thoughts on the Lord’s Prayer Part 3

Disciples spanning the ages and circling the globe share a common prayer, the Lord’s Prayer. Just imagine how many times this prayer has been offered. Just imagine all the situations that have inspired the use of these words of Jesus. Just imagine all the languages used to speak this prayer. Just imagine how much peace, wisdom, comfort, and inspiration the Lord’s Prayer has produced in the lives of Jesus’ followers.

In consideration of its significance and wide usage, I want to share some of my thoughts about the Lord’s Prayer.

The next phrase we are considering is: Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. This first petition in Jesus’ prayer seeks to align us with Divine purposes. It would seem that one of the differences between heaven and earth is the way God’s values prevail in heaven. We need help for that to happen on earth, so we ask God to make it so. Grace, peace, justice, faithfulness, kindness, compassion, and integrity are the characteristics we ask God to bring to earth and our relationships and interactions. Jesus doesn’t want us to simply wait for heaven to experience life with God. Jesus invites us to pray and work for it right now!

How might an openness to Divine values sustain life on earth? How have you experienced God’s kingdom come on earth? How does Jesus’ example clarify the will of God? You may share your thoughts with me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com. 

Let’s renew our commitment to using the Lord’s Prayer in ways that bless us and others.

~Marc