Click HERE to view Rev. Stacy Macris Ros’ guided meditation during the service.
SUMMARY OF MESSAGE
Last week Rev. Maraj explored the first half of “The Lord’s Prayer.” During this service, he wrapped up his two-week series by exploring the second half of the prayer.
The Lord’s Prayer offers more than familiar words to recite; it teaches a way of thinking, praying and living rooted in our connection with God. Jesus invited us into the consciousness behind the prayer: an awareness of our oneness with the Divine and one another, our spiritual nature, and our responsibility to express God’s goodness in the world.
GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD
This line invites us to trust that God provides what we need for each day: not only food, but wisdom, comfort, inspiration guidance and strength. Rather than pleading for something missing, we can affirm that divine resources are available today and every day. We do not need to know every answer or anticipate every challenge; we need to trust the next step. This trust releases energy spent worrying about the future or regretting the past, allowing us to live today more fully. The word “us” also reminds us to pray for and participate in the well-being of others.
FORGIVE US OUR TRESPASSES AS WE FORGIVE THOSE WHO TRESPASS AGAINST US
Forgiveness is essential to spiritual growth, because resentment, bitterness and blame block our experience of peace and connection with Spirit. Forgiving means refusing to let past hurts continue to govern our happiness. Jesus’ instruction to forgive “70 times seven” calls us to make releasing negativity a continuous spiritual practice. Whatever others have said or done, we have the power to free ourselves through our willingness to forgive.
LEAVE US NOT IN TEMPTATION, BUT DELIVER US FROM EVIL
God does not tempt us, but we sometimes become caught in fear, selfishness, anger and the illusion of separation. The interpretation “leave us not in temptation” expresses our desire to awaken from these patterns rather than remain trapped in them. Turning toward God reconnects us with the wisdom, compassion and goodness within. Divine power can help us overcome limitation, transform difficult situations and make choices that support our own well-being and that of others.
FOR THINE IS THE KINGDOM, AND THE POWER, AND THE GLORY FOREVER. AMEN.
The prayer closes by affirming our enduring connection with God’s Presence and Power. Divine life, strength and goodness remain available to us through every circumstance. “Amen” expresses a personal commitment to believe, embody and act upon these truths. The Lord’s Prayer is a foundation for all prayer—and a daily practice of trusting, forgiving, surrendering and allowing God’s goodness to move through us.