Trespass, sin, or debt, we should forgive these in others first, then pray.
Several days ago, the western Oklahoma plans for the National Day of Prayer were reported in the Burns Flat Examiner. The planning and logistics for that event continue so that all a person needs to do is arrive at the appointed time and pray.
Since that time, this column has followed with some prayers familiar to many of us.
Today, we look at what many call a model prayer. Jesus showed his disciples how to pray.
Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
Matthew 6:9-13, NKJV
After the prayer, Jesus made a commentary on one aspect of the prayer. Do you remember what it was?
That’s right, it was forgiveness. He didn’t go back and review reverence, petition, temptation, or deliverance. He said make sure you get this forgiveness stuff right. Don’t mess it up. It is really, really important.
When we ask God for his forgiveness, we are to have already forgiven our debtors. When we say as we forgive in our prayer, this is a confirmation that we have forgiven all those who have offended us.
This prayer is much more than a prayer of forgiveness, but when Jesus takes the time to make a special point, it’s worth noting and acting upon.
As we move towards that day when many come together to pray at various locations in our nation, the Western Oklahoma Presbyterian Examiner will offer a prayer each day that has been prayed by many saints before us.
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Most folks just call me Tom.
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Photo/art credit (top of page): http://twilightsentinel.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/the-lords-prayer.jpg
This article also appears in The Burns Flat Examiner.
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