In seeking to sum up the recent series of article on the Lord’s Prayer, I came across this anonymous reflection on what we mean when we pray these words. I offer here for reflection.

I cannot say “OUR” if I have no room in my life for others and their needs. 

I cannot say “FATHER” if I do not demonstrate this relationship in my daily living. 

I cannot say “WHO ART IN HEAVEN” if all my interests and pursuits are in earthly things. 

I cannot say “HALLOWED BE THY NAME” if I, who am called to bear His name, am not holy. 

I cannot say “THY KINGDOM COME” if I am unwilling to give up my own sovereignty and accept the righteous reign of God. 

I cannot say “THY WILL BE DONE” if I am unwilling or resentful of having God’s will in my life. 

I cannot say “ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN” unless I am truly ready to give myself to God’s service here and now. 

I cannot say “GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD” without expending honest effort for it, or by ignoring the genuine needs of others. 

I cannot say “FORGIVE US OUR TRESPASSES AS WE FORGIVE THOSE WHO TRESPASS AGAINST US” if I continue to harbor a grudge against anyone. 

I cannot say “LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION” if I deliberately choose to remain in a situation where I am likely to be tempted. 

I cannot say “DELIVER US FROM EVIL” if I am not prepared to fight in the spiritual realm with the ultimate weapon of prayer. 

I cannot say “THINE IS THE KINGDOM” if I do not give the kind of disciplined obedience of a loyal subject. 

I cannot say “THINE IS THE POWER” if I fear what my neighbors may say or do. 

I cannot say “THINE IS THE GLORY” if I am seeking honor only for myself.

I cannot say “FOREVER” if I am too anxious about each day’s events. 

I cannot say “AMEN” unless I can honestly say,” cost what it may, this is my prayer.”