Gospel
Luke 11:1-4
Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples." He 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 in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test."
Sermon
My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's Gospel reading presents Jesus teaching His disciples how to pray. The Lord's Prayer, also known as the Our Father, is a timeless model for intimate communion with God.
The Request:
A disciple asks Jesus to teach them to pray like John taught his disciples.
Jesus' Response:
- He shares the Lord's Prayer
- A simple yet profound prayer
The Lord's Prayer:
- Address God as Father (intimacy)
- Hallow God's name (reverence)
- Seek God's Kingdom (priority)
- Request daily bread (provision)
- Ask for forgiveness (humility)
- Commit to forgiving others (mercy)
- Seek protection from temptation (dependence)
Implications for Us:
- Pray with intimacy and reverence
- Prioritize God's Kingdom
- Trust in God's provision
- Seek forgiveness and extend mercy
- Recognize dependence on God
Conclusion:
May the Lord's Prayer guide our communion with God.
Reflection Questions:
1. How do you address God in prayer?
2. What priorities do you seek in prayer?
3. How do you balance forgiveness and mercy?
Prayer
Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Almighty, merciful, and loving God, teach us to pray with intimacy and reverence. May our prayers reflect trust in Your provision. Guide us to prioritize Your Kingdom.
Lord Jesus, teach us to pray. May our prayers reflect
intimacy, reverence, and trust.
We pray for:
- Hearts filled with reverence and awe
- Minds focused on Your Kingdom
- Trust in Your daily provision
- Forgiveness and mercy for ourselves and others
- Protection from temptation
In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.
Prayer for Intimacy:
Lord Jesus, deepen our intimacy with God.
May our prayers reflect reverence and trust. Amen.
Prayer for Forgiveness:
Heavenly Father, forgive our sins. Grant us mercy and compassion. May we extend forgiveness to others. Amen.
May these prayers guide you in praying the Lord's Prayer, seeking intimate communion with God.
Optional Memorial Prayer:
St. John Leonardi and St. Denis, intercede for us. May their examples of prayer and courage inspire us. Amen.
Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ