Lord's Prayer Noodling (2)

October 19, 2020

Scripture

Jesus said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.” (Luke 11:2-4 ) ESV

Lord’s Prayer Noodling (2)

Last week I mentioned the “Father”, “Hallowed Name” and “Your Kingdom Come” trio. Jesus provides these brief statements for addressing the Creator and Sustainer of the universe – the one he calls “Abba”.

“Hallowed”, “holy”, “consecrated” is this name Jesus invites us to use. It’s not chummy but it is welcoming, not casual but respected – in a category of its own. A search consultant friend once told me that when he used my name for an introduction it usually led to laughter at my expense and then created trust for him in his conversation. Our names mean a lot to us and often to others.

How much more does the holy name of God mean? When I say this prayer, pausing at “hallowed” is a good thing. When we are grateful, angry, seeking forgiveness, needing to forgive, in desperate straits, hopeful, fearful, vengeful, generous – this name causes us to pause and reflect on what we need by way of help and wisdom beyond ourselves.

A Prayer for Today

Father. Your Hallowed name brings me to silence, awe, reverence, love and freedom. Let me bask in the name that is above all name who humbled himself to die in humiliation for the reconciliation of the world. This is beyond my capacity for understanding, but the mystery is enriching and comforting. Thank you …. for Jesus’ sake