Our Father, who art in Heaven… by Brenda Blake
For as far back as I can remember it seems like I’ve always known the words to the Lord’s Prayer. A few weeks ago at our weekly staff meeting, Pastor Craig asked staff members to share their memories of when they learned the words to this prayer. Many remembered exactly when and from whom they learned the words. I tried really hard to remember, but as of yet it hasn’t come to me. There are only two choices though, I either learned it from my parents, or I learned it in Sunday school. What I do know for sure is, I’ve said the prayer silently, and out loud many more times than I could even count. But, I know there is a huge difference between saying the words of the prayer versus living the words of the prayer. Living out the words of the prayer requires taking action and… well, that requires some hard work on my part. 
Pastor Craig invited us (staff) to let the Lord’s Prayer shape how we pray. And to reflect on these two questions: what do I need to confess? and, who do I need to forgive?
As far as confession goes, I think I’m comfortable talking with God about where I’ve sinned, or failed, or came up short. I’m less comfortable confessing out loud (or in my blog), but I’ll give it a try. For the past few weeks I’ve been feeling distressed for not having as much patience with others in my life. I’ve been procrastinating, not taking care of things needed to be done. And, I have to offer an apology to someone, for not being there when they needed me. I know that I have failed myself, others, and God. I know that God will ‘forgive my trespasses” and I also know that, I need to pray daily, over and over again.
As to the forgiveness question, I will defer to a recent (Tuesday, August 19) assignment in our Daily Devotional Guide. “What prevents you from forgiving yourself, others, institutions, or God? “
For now, I will pray for willingness and a softening of my heart. I sincerely believe this simple prayer has the power to change my life if only I become willing to let it.
Brenda Blake, Director, Church & Community Work
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