Gospel of Luke, chapter 11:1

The following is a meditation on the most frequently used prayer:
The Our Father.

I cannot say “Our” – if my religion has no room for other people and their needs.

I cannot say “Father” – if I do not acknowledge everyone as my brother and sister.

I cannot say “Who art in Heaven” – If all my interests and pursuits are earthly things.

I cannot say “Hallowed be Thy Name” – if I do not fight prejudice in His name.

I cannot say “Thy kingdom come” – if I am unwilling to accept the reign of God.

I cannot say “Thy will be done” – if I negate His guidance by insisting on my own will.

I cannot say “on earth as it is in Heaven” – if I do not put His word into practice.

I cannot say “Give us this day our daily bread” – if I do not feed the hungry.

I cannot say “Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors”- if I harbor a grudge against anyone.

I cannot say “Deliver us from evil” – if I do not fight against the evils of the world.

I cannot say” Amen” – if I do not agree, heart and soul.

Fr. Hugh Duffy