Thursday of Week 11 – Ecclesiasticus 48:1-15; Matthew 6:7-15

The Father knows what you need, you don’t have to explain or beseech Him for a long time – explains Jesus. However, this is not a cue to stop asking.

Of course, we do have to ask. For everything we need to live, for forgiveness of sins and protection from evil. Importantly: We pray to our Father for bread for us. Not to God for bread for yourself, who is only your Father. Not for bread for yourself despite others. . .

The word “our” in this most famous prayer is probably the hardest to notice. And at the same time, it is one of the most important words. It is this that makes prayer for bread for me also an intercessory prayer – for bread for the whole world. The prayer for mercy asks for mercy for all people (in this situation, would it be possible for the person praying with these words to refuse forgiveness to his brother?). The prayer for protection from evil applies to me as much as to every person.

The “Our Father” prayer cannot be prayed opposed against anyone. . .