When the disciples asked Jesus how to pray, He gave them the words of the Lords Prayer (Lk 11:1-4; Mt 6:5-15). Its a common concern: how should we pray?
The first words Jesus gives us to pray, Our Father who art in heaven, are an invitation to us to pray. Only those who may call God Father may pray this way. Who are they? Those who have become His children through the waters and promise of Holy Baptism. Those who, by faith, are heirs of eternal life. With these words, God tenderly invites us to believe that He is our true Father and that we are His true children, so that with all boldness and confidence, we may ask Him as dear children ask their dear father. (Small Catechism) Prayer is conversation with the Lord, who is truly more loving than even the most perfect earthly father. He knows our needs, and He invites us to call on Him to fill those needs (as He does even without our prayer). It would be a terrifying thing for a sinner to have a conversation with a holy God. But because our Heavenly Father has clothed us in the righteousness of Christ (Gal 3:27), when He looks at us, He sees not our sinfulness but Christs righteousness. As
Related Questions
- When the disciples asked Jesus how to pray, He gave them the words of the Lords Prayer (Lk 11:1-4; Mt 6:5-15). Its a common concern: how should we pray?
- Since God invites us to pray and Jesus modelled a life of prayer, obviously prayer is necessary and undoubtedly beneficial. So, why pray?
- Why did Jesus teach his disciples the Lords Prayer?
