"I" is not Found in Our Father Prayer

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 11th Week - Thursday*

*"I" is not Found in Our Father Prayer*

*GOSPEL -  Mt 6:7-15*

*FIRST READING - Sir 48:1-14*

*1) Lords Prayer*

Our Father prayer has been called as Lord's prayer, because it was taught by Jesus 

Among all prayers, this perticular prayer has a special significance in our life, because it was directly taught by Jesus 

This is also a prayer, which is prayed,  many times by many people in a day. This also shows the importance of this prayer 

*2) "I" is not Found in Lord's prayer*

In the entire prayer, there are many words which we can see. 

But the word *I* is not found in the entire prayer. 

This is the unique factor of this prayer. So what is the significance this logic?

*3) Lord's prayer is not "I" centred prayer, but "Our" centred prayer*

In the Lord's prayer instead of *I* we find many times the word *Our*

So this prayer gives importance to the Aspect of *Our* rather than *I*

*4) Difference between "I" & "Our" centred prayer*

*I* centred prayer always focused on the self. Therefore it is the prayer for the self and only the self involves. 

*I* centred prayer is considered as selfish Prayer. 

Where as *0ur* centred prayer is more of community oriented prayer 

*Our* centred prayer, helps a person to participate in the prayer and to deepen his relationship. 

*Our* centred prayer is more powerful than *I*

centred prayer, because of its content and effectiveness. 

Our centred prayer takes everyone into the fold while praying, but *I* centred prayer takes only the self 

*5) What is the nature of my Prayer?*

How do I pray in my life? 

Is it a *I* centred prayer or *Our* centred prayer?

We have been called upon to practice logic of *Our* centred prayer, which takes everyone into praising 

When we pray for others, our prayers are heard. 

What is my response?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*