Pater Noster

 

The words of the Lord's Prayer are generally known by most people,

certainly those of my own generation and today's church goers.

Familiar words recited in school assemblies and on other occasions,

with the emphasis being on the words Our Father, a prayer said by all.

 

It is often said without much thought being given to its words,

as it has become all too familiar and said so frequently.

It is recited out of habit with little thought given to its profound nature,

as it resounds around a building and inside our heads.

 

If we break down its various pieces we can ponder on their significance,

what these words mean to us and what they imply.

Which part of this prayer, if any, is the most important part?

People differ in their answers but for me my attention is drawn.

to the words 'Thy Will be Done'. as they seem to stand out alone.

 

We are asking that God's willl is done overriding our own will,

a handing over of our own free will into his hands.

This can bring about a conflict of wills,

but in saying these words we are submitting to the will of God.

 

These words challenge us but as we dwell more on their significance,

we come to see that God wills only what is good for us.

I say the Pater Noster at least once a day and have come to

accept that I can happily live with the will of God taking precedence.

 

It is all a question of trust