The way Jesus teaches us to pray, forms us individually and collectively in three relational truths:
The One to whom we pray is both Creator and Near: “Our Father…in heaven.”
Our daily and basic living is caught up in “the great sweep of history” of His Story from making holy His name to living free from evil.
Because we are caught up in His life and action; we are released into our lives and actions.
Kenneth E. Bailey contends that "Each of the six petitions involves an act of God, and each specifies or implies participation on the part of the believer,” the one praying. So this week, let’s pray the implied made specific below, allowing our minds and hearts to formed so that we might live the Truth.
Father, You make Your own name holy, and so I am expected to live a holy life.
Father, You bring Your Kingdom, and so I am to work toward the goal of its fulness.
Father, You fulfill Your will, and so I am to discover and obey it in daily life.
Father, You give the gift of daily bread, and so I am to labor with what you give.
Father, You forgive, and so I am to share what I have been given.
Father, You guide me away from evil, and so I must live a life that follows where You lead.