Go out to all the world, and tell the Good News. — Mark 16:15

Mass Readings: Galatians 2:1-2,7-14 / Luke 11:1-4 

Focus on Prayer 

When I read Luke’s version of the Lord’s Prayer in today’s Gospel, I’m surprised by what’s not mentioned in it. Nothing about love or hope or even meeting the basic needs of others. Jesus must have known this prayer would be a perpetual model for communication with God, so why the glaring omissions? 

Perhaps Jesus knew this prayer would be accompanied by other teachings that would round it out; or maybe knowing that this prayer would be remembered, He wanted His followers to focus on some key points that shouldn’t be forgotten: God is holy, active, and sustaining. We are called to be forgiving as God is forgiving. We need God’s protection. These truths, like the prayer from which they flow, are inexhaustible, powerful and worthy of frequent reflection. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach me to pray.