Hello
I awakened with a start. It was so late In the morning that overslept doesn’t fully capture my state of affairs. While rushing, it dawned on me that the place was uncommonly quiet. Checked the clock. It was scarcely morning! Sometimes we’re caught up following … only to realize that we are misled. Let us fix our trust in the original. Jesus Christ.
Here’s today’s nougat
For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory Forever. Luke 11.4 1/2
In an era of dictatorial imperialism comes the instruction to recognize God’s divinity, authority and majesty. Wow!
At the time, the head of the Roman empire, Caesar, was given God- like attributes. No one was permitted to question his right to rule and rule he did with a heavy, often evil hand. To keep the people in line and squash rebellious thoughts, “Pax Romana” had been established; but the peace had little bearing on anyone’s expectations for the absence of war or skirmishes.
Imagine therefore, being taught to pray using frames which clearly threaten Pax Romana?
The opening frame raised 2 core pieces – God’s eternal divinity and our relationship with God (OUR heavenly Father…holy name). And the closing frame renounces the validity of imperialism. (Kingdom/empire, Power/authority, Glory/honor … Eternally). That’s turning imperialism totally on its head!!!
It also means that in the face of crashing currency, overwhelming natural disasters, rising and falling dictatorships and neo- colonialism, God’s reign remains supreme. I can’t take that to the bank; but when I pray, it is the most valuable currency.
What a joy to know that God is beyond corruptible, God remains with us forever. To know that God’s reign is eternal. To know God’s power is unparalleled. To know God is the only awesome one. What a joy to know that as OUR Father, that same God wants a relationship with us – as father; legitimizing us when others would reject us.
How then do we pray?
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
