When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, what do you think they had in mind? What did they seek? What would you have had in your mind? What do you want Jesus to teach you about prayer?

Does learning to pray involve studying just the right words in order to get God’s attention? Is there a formula or technique? Is there some way to get God to do what you ask? Is asking for something – that which turns people to prayer so often – the Main Thing of prayer? If not, what is?

Some of the instructions for prayer we have in the Bible warn us what NOT to do. Check out Exodus 20:1-7 which not only warns us about idolatry — praying to other gods (to cover your bases) — but also not to use even the Lord’s name as if it’s not significant (“in vain” the older translation had it). What does that mean? What are the idols of today? How can one pray in a flippant manner or not take the Name seriously?

In the great Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gives both warnings and advice [Matthew 6:5-15]. What stands out to you? Does God like a bunch of words, flowery words, Bible-sounding words? What does the Lord ‘like’ and what difference does it make? Why do we think pastors have “an inroad to God,” as some people have told me? Are their prayers more effective?

Over the next few weeks we will be featuring, at the end of the sermons, different translations of the Lord’s Prayer used in worship. This Sunday, we go back to before the 1960s – a different translation from what we say today. It’s the version I first learned when I was four years old. Pray it now and discern the difference.

“Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.”

I look forward to seeing you in worship this Sunday!