"The Breath of Heaven"
OPENING PRAYER:
Spirit of God, breathe life into our understanding and draw us closer to Your heart. May we sense Your nearness and be transformed by Your presence. Amen.
"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Matthew 6:9-10 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Pastor Carter's message highlighted a profound truth: God is not distant. When Jesus taught us to pray, "Our Father in heaven," He used the plural form of "heaven," suggesting that God is as close as the air we breathe. This challenges the misconception that God is far away, reminding us that He is both transcendent and imminent.
In the cultural context of Jesus' time, the heavens were understood as the sky, the atmosphere, and the very air around us. This imagery paints a picture of a God who is intimately involved in our lives, not a deity who is remote or detached. Todd encouraged us to see God as present and active, a Father who is right here, right now.
This understanding transforms our prayer life. When we pray, "Hallowed be your name," we are not only acknowledging God's holiness but also committing to reflect His character in our lives. Todd shared the story of Ron Bailey, whose life was transformed by this truth. Ron's journey from a life of trouble to one of service and leadership is a testament to the power of God's presence and the call to hallow His name.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will pray the Lord's Prayer for the next 21 days. We’re inviting the entire Pathway family to join us for 21 Days of Prayer, starting with a special Kickoff Night on Saturday, January 10, at our Westlink Campus (2001 N. Maize Rd.), beginning at 7:00 PM, following Saturday evening service. To find out more, check out the Weekly Guide in the Pathway app or click here.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for being closer than we can imagine. Help us to live in a way that honors Your name and reflects Your love to the world. May Your presence guide us in every step. Amen.