This Then is How You Should Pray…

Read Matthew 6:9-15 

How do you pray? In this passage, Jesus teaches us how:

“Our Father, in heaven, hallowed be your name,” (vs. 9) 

Jesus begins by inviting us to reverently approach the Father with Him. As we come to Him, we must acknowledge to whom we are praying. He is both personal (our Father) as well as Holy (seated on the throne).  

“…your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (vs. 10) 

We are taught to pray with a kingdom mindset. This calls us to die to ourselves. Jesus prayed in the garden of Gethsemane, “Abba, Father…everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” (Mark 14:36) How challenging! When we come before the Father, it is only natural that we share our desires with Him. However, ultimately we need to surrender fully to His will, acknowledging it is perfect. We must put off our earthly mindsets and be kingdom focused. 

“Give us today our daily bread.” (vs. 11)

Living in Costa Rica last year, this passage often came to mind. At almost every corner, little bakeries abound where locals go to buy fresh bread to accompany their morning coffee. In John 6:35, Jesus says, “I am the bread of life…” Seeking Jesus as our daily bread isn’t something we binge on some days and starve ourselves the next. It is a daily practice. Just as Costa Ricans recognize their desire for bread and that it is best when fresh (not stale or day-old), so we too should nourish ourselves each day from the one who not only gives life, but is life. 

Verses 12-15 compel us to pray against our sinful nature. Although we are taught to pray that we would not be led into temptation, Jesus doesn’t promise that temptation won’t come. However, when we are faced with it, He holds the power to “deliver us from the evil one.” (vs. 13) 

Interestingly, the end of this passage is often left unspoken in communal prayer, but it is definitely worth examining! Here, we are reminded that if we truly desire God’s forgiveness, we must extend that same forgiveness to those that have wronged us. If Jesus could take on the sin of the world as the Spotless Lamb to give us salvation, then we must follow His example and forgive others.

FOR REFLECTION:

• Pray through The Lord’s Prayer today, taking time to pause and reflect on each aspect Jesus emphasizes. 

by Rachel Sanfelippo