142: Matthew 6:7-13
Today, I’m offering a simple reading of one of Jesus’ teachings on prayer, found in the middle of the Sermon on the Mount. As I read, you’re invited to listen and notice what you notice. Once the reading is through, I’ll offer a few questions for reflection, as you consider the reminders God might have for you in this passage.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I believe wholeheartedly that while these words were inspired and written a couple thousand years ago, God’s Spirit is still inspiring us as its readers today. So, feel free to pause, rewind, or revisit as you see fit. As always, I hope it serves you well.
A reading from Matthew 6:7-13, as found in the Common English Bible translation:
7 “When you pray, don’t pour out a flood of empty words, as the Gentiles do. They think that by saying many words they’ll be heard. 8 Don’t be like them, because your Father knows what you need before you ask. 9 Pray like this:
Our Father who is in heaven,
uphold the holiness of your name.
10 Bring in your kingdom
so that your will is done on earth as it’s done in heaven.
11 Give us the bread we need for today.
12 Forgive us for the ways we have wronged you,
just as we also forgive those who have wronged us.
13 And don’t lead us into temptation,
but rescue us from the evil one.
This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Does anything stand out to you in this passage? Maybe a word, image or phrase? A feeling or a question? Take a moment to consider what that might be for you.
What do you notice about your response to the passage? Do you resonate with it? Are you bothered by it? Both can be true, or you might notice something else entirely. Take a moment to welcome and sit with your response, whatever it may be.
Now, consider your current life and circumstances. If it’s helpful, maybe even focus in on this very day. What reminder or invitation might God be offering you through this passage?
Finally, as you consider that reminder or invitation, what do you need from God?
Today, may we seek to pray like this, as together, we continue to become the people God calls and invites us to be.