Sunday Rewind 10.21.07

Have you ever wanted to experience a more dynamic prayer life? If so, join the club...one that was founded by the original 12 disciples. They were Jews, so they knew how to pray. They were probably diligent in praying. But they saw something in Jesus' prayer life that they wanted. So they asked Him to teach them to pray.

In reply, Jesus offered a model for prayer that is simple enough for children to recite, yet rich enough to fuel the prayer journey of the most mature saint. Over the next five weeks, we're exploring together "The Lord's Prayer", learning not only about the significance of each phrase, but about how to integrate each into our own prayer experiences.

We begin with Luke 6:9, where we learn that prayer is rooted in an intimate relationship with God. "Our Father"... Many people stumble over those words because earthly models of "Father" spring to mind. But that's a problem, because the greatest human father who ever walked the earth falls way short of who our Father in heaven is.

This opening phrase also shows us that prayer seeks God's glory first. Here, too, many people stumble. Too often, we launch into a litany of things we want. But that places us first. "Hallowed be your name" places God's priorities first. It is asking God to reveal His holiness in us, in the Church, in the world.

Essentially, Jesus instructs those who desire to learn to pray to begin with praise. How?

Start with the phrase Jesus offers. Let the words sink down into your soul. Then allow the Scriptures (Psalm 146-150) or songs to offer you word. Over time, you'll find those words becoming your own.

You'll also start noticing:

• More reasons to praise God for who He is
• Your love for God growing
• The urgency of your request begin to subside