This Sunday we come to Luke 11:1-13, which includes Luke’s account of the Lord’s Prayer. In preparation for our corporate worship, read the Scripture passage and then ponder a few of the relevant (and so well-worded!) sections of the Heidelberg Catechism (1576):

Q & A 117

Q. How does God want us to pray so that he will listen to us?

A. First, we must pray from the heart to no other than the one true God, who has revealed himself in his Word, asking for everything he has commanded us to ask for.

Second, we must acknowledge our need and misery, hiding nothing, and humble ourselves in his majestic presence.

Third, we must rest on this unshakable foundation: even though we do not deserve it,
God will surely listen to our prayer because of Christ our Lord. That is what he promised us in his Word.

Q & A 122

Q. What does the first request [of the Lord’s Prayer] mean?

A. “Hallowed be your name” means, Help us to really know you, to bless, worship, and praise you for all your works and for all that shines forth from them: your almighty power, wisdom, kindness, justice, mercy, and truth.

And it means, help us to direct all our living—what we think, say, and do—so that your name will never be blasphemed because of us but always honored and praised.

Q & A 123

Q. What does the second request [of the Lord’s Prayer] mean?

A. “Your kingdom come” means, Rule us by your Word and Spirit in such a way that more and more we submit to you. Keep your church strong, and add to it. Destroy the devil’s work; destroy every force which revolts against you
 and every conspiracy against your Word. Do this until your kingdom is so complete and perfect, that in it you are all in all.