Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Most churches recite, at one time or another during the service, or at least during the year, the prayer given in the Bible by Jesus as a teaching of how we should pray. However, it is interesting to note that in Matthew's account, Jesus had just finished speaking against vain repetitions. Surely, when this prayer is prayed, and not merely recited, it is not vain repitition, but I wonder how many people are simply repeating the words with no consideration for their meaning.
Let us consider the idea that Jesus meant this prayer to be a model, for He said, "After this manner" we should pray. Consider the following prayers written "after this manner", and if you wish, submit your own.
Our Father, living in heaven our eternal home, holy is your name.
Your leadership is just and wise, and it should be accepted in our homes, as it is in your home.
As a loving Father, you give us today's food each day, and you forgive our disobedience as we forgive the wrongs our neighbors do against us.
Keep us safe from harmful temptations, and deliver us from the evil ones trying to destroy our home.
You are worthy of all glory and honor and power, now and forever.
Amen.
Our Father, Loving Commander of our hearts, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our ration for this day.
Forgive us our infractions as we forgive the infractions of others.
Lead us not into booby traps, but deliver us from the ambush of the Enemy.
For thine is the kingdom and the overwhelming force and the victory parade, forever,
Amen.
Almighty God, Nurturer of our souls, your name is holy.
Teach us the straight way and help us to grow into your kingdom here on earth as we will in heaven.
Set a table for us this day with the things we need today for strength.
Forgive our naughtiness, as we forgive the meanness of others.
Teach us the way that is right, and keep us safe from evil.
For yours is the kingdom and the protection and the honor, forever.
Amen.