In addition to praying the Lord’s Prayer three times today, take a moment to read the scripture from the King James Version of the Bible.  How is it different from the CEB we used on Sunday morning?  What do you notice?  Do these differences matter to you?  Why or why not?  As a teaching moment, many Protestant congregations moved away from the KJV not simply because of language that was perceived to be “old-fashioned” or “outdated” but out of significant theological and translational errors made in the 1611 version of the scriptures. It was commissioned to fit the structure and theology of the Church of England in 1600 and the empowerment of certain cultural institutions and values; it was not an accurate translation of the original ancient manuscripts.  However, this is still the version many have in their memory bank, however, it is important to recognize that this is not the case for everyone.  Note that some people use debts and debtors, others use sins/sinners while still others use tresspasses.  Which is “right” and which is most accurate?  Was Jesus giving us a verbatim script or a skeleton model to be adapted for our own use?  How does this impact the way you approach this passage and this prayer?  

7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. 8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Community Prayer Focus: Today is one of the four days this month our Community food pantry is open.  Pray a prayer of thanksgiving for those who serve in this ministry and for the ministry of Harvesters.  Pray for our clients for whom the systems of food insecurity in our world impact them in real and tangible ways.

Park Hill Prayer Focus: Today is All Saints Day.  Reflect on the people who taught you  to pray or are perhaps still showing you what living a life of prayerfulness looks like.  Give thanks for them and for their lives.  Perhaps if they are still living, give them a call, send a text or write them a note to say thank you for the ways they encouraged your faith.