MEDITATION: Let's a recap what we've learned about how and what to pray from our study of the Disciples Prayer.  The first section deals with how we are to praise God, the hallowing of His name, , the desire for His kingdom, and the doing of His will.  Only then can we consider our needs.  God must be put at the center before we can lift up our petitions.  All-powerful praying begins by a commitment to the majesty, purpose, and will of God.  The second section of the prayer deals with our petitions of supplication: food and daily provision ofr today, forgiveness for the past, intervention for the future.  All our needs will be satisfied when they are surrendered completely to our Lord. 

                The third section is a commitment to God.  To pray "Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever" is to declare our ultimate purpose.  Thus we see that prayer is adoration, confession, intercession, supplication, and a dedication.  Like the five fingers of our hand, each is necessary to grasp and hold the promise of prayer. 

                 Some time ago I was asked to give a prayer at a civic gathering.  Just before I went to the rostrum, a woman stopped me and said, "This is a mixed gathering of many faiths.  Not everyone is a Christian.  Just pray the Lord's Prayer."  The emphasis was on the word "just."  The woman thought this awesome prayer of commitment Jesus taught the disciples to pray would be the lowest common denominator.  Actually it should not be called the "Lord's" Prayer.  It is a prayer for disciples who want to be faithful and obedient.  When we surrender our total self to our Lord, then we are ready to pray and live His model prayer.  (from "God's Best For My Life" by Lloyd John Ogilvie)