I got excited when I saw the readings for today. A few months ago, I felt like I needed something new in my prayer life. After trying out some things, I realized that the “basic” prayers many of us learned as kids have so much to teach us. I began sitting with prayers I felt like I knew- the Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, and others. I forced myself to slow down, to soak in the teachings at the heart of these prayers that have been handed down since the beginning of our faith tradition. I was awed by the power in them. At any one time, how many people in the world must be speaking these same words. It makes me feel part of a big web of love.

Now, today’s gospel specifically tells us the Our Father. First, I would like to encourage everyone to pray it slowly. Really think about what the words mean. What stands out to you?

This prayer encompasses so many aspects of life that we can struggle with - forgiveness, temptation, even worshiping our God. Many of these teachings can be applied beyond the prayer. The prayer guides us in what kind of situations to pray to the Lord about. I’d like to look at the last paragraph that focuses solely on forgiveness. We are given a rather strong ultimatum: forgive others or we will not be forgiven by the heavenly father. That is a serious consequence. Time in purgatory or an eternity in hell because we could not bring ourselves to be merciful to others. When I think about it, mercy may be the thing I ask for most in this life. Mercy from God. Mercy from others for my mistakes or transgressions against them. And yet, how hard is it for me to give mercy to others? Perhaps that is why Jesus is so serious about the importance of forgiveness. If we cannot forgive others, why would we be deserving of forgiveness in return?

Lord, give me the courage and peace to forgive others, no matter the transgression against me.