"In praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words." (Matthew 6:7)
Obviously, there is a fundamental question on which pattern or model of prayer is pleasing to God. While some will opt for "Prayer by fire", others consider meditative or inclusive prayers where one dialogue with God.
In the light of this, that Christ our Lord and Master presents before us the proper model of prayer in today's gospel pericope saying:
"In praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words." (Matthew 6:7).
This forms the introduction to the traditional "Lord's Prayer." The prayer is found in two forms: a shorter form in Luke 11:2-4; which is probably the original form of it. And a longer version which is the gospel reading of today (Matthew 6:9-13). This version of course according to biblical scholars was expanded for liturgical use in the worshiping community.
However, we are being invited to pray bearing in mind that, it is not how loud our voices are, or heaping of empty phrases as Gentiles does will make our prayers to be heard. Rather, we need to converse with God using the four major keys which contains in the Lord's Prayer: "ACTS" that is Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving and Supplication. In using this pattern as the Lord given, we will be in real dialogue with our Heavely Father.
Peace, be with you!
Let us pray
Almighty and eternal God, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ who taught us the way to holiness and how to communicate with You. We beseech Thee to grant us the spirit of docility to pray in faith and not in words. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
© The ARCHIVE 16062022
Amen, more grace fr.
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