"This is how you are to pray: Our Father . . ."
Matthew 6: 7-15
Our readings for this Tuesday in our early Lenten journey capture for us the most universal Christian prayer. While there may be theological and historical points that separate us, the "Lord's Prayer" or "Our Father" can unite us. Together we acknowledge God as our "Father." For Christians he bears that name as a reference for relationship for Jesus is his "Son" and the Holy Spirit is their love personified, present and active for us. United as one God, yet three persons, we think in analogies; what God is like rather than what he truly is since the divine mystery remains for human minds an incomprehensible mystery.
Yet, because of Jesus we know the heart of God as love, mercy, forgiveness, justice, reconciliation. As a Father figure, and for some who may have never had a significant or positive experience of a human father, to see God as a protector, a benevolent figure who wishes only the best for his children, one who guides and cares for all as Creator and wishes us into life. One who desires we be at home with him after our earthly journey is completed.
To attribute to God such concrete images is most helpful to us. It uncovers some of the mystery and through Jesus tells us what God is like. We need not fear this God but rather come close to him like a child in need of direction and protection. For me personally, this is one of three images of God I find appealing: God as Father, God as the Good Shepherd, and God as the Divine Physician.
What image of God communicates to you? Has this Lent, although in its early steps, revealed another image of God that is helpful in your spiritual life? Is that image of God a comfortable one or a frightening one? Is God ready to strike or to heal for you?
Jesus forms this beautiful and universal Christian prayer in order to emphasize for us God's paternal care: he dwells in heaven, yet we can reach him in this life, his name is to be honored and respected and he desires that his will become ours, he provides for us and we should rely in faith on that promise, he judges and will forgive us according to how we treat one another, we should pray that we do not fall into temptation and to be protected from the evil one and other forces of darkness. It is the perfect prayer.
Today, you may want to pray it slowly and reflectively but also be open to other images of God that speak to your heart.
Peace.
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