The Reading
But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
- Matthew 6:7-15, King James Version
Reflection
For me, this specific version of the Lord's Prayer, verses 9-13, is very special. I memorized it growing up in the Presbyterian church and heard it sung over the loudspeaker every night at summer camp when I was young. Whenever I need the comfort of God, I pray or sing the Lord's Prayer. This past year, I have done so quite a bit. Also, I reflect and write about how I am feeling and listen to music - they keep me close to my faith and to God. So, I want to share with you one of my reflections from April 2020:
"Quiet...it is what surrounds me now in this time of sickness and fear.
Quiet...a time to slow down, be still, reflect and pray. A blessing to be sure in this normally bustling world in which we live.
Grateful for my faith in God that is always with me but seems to fill me more in these days of uncertainty.
Missing...the hugs of my beautiful daughter and son, the in-person talks with dear friends, the gathering of the choir as we embrace and spread the joy of song.
Knowing...that God has a plan, there is a light in the darkness, death is not the end. Trying to focus - fill my heart with hope and love surrounded by the beauty that is ever present if you choose to see it."
Christi invites you to listen to a favorite recording of the Lord's Prayer: