The Small Catechism – part 157
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Psalm 20:7
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Small Catechism, The Introduction to the Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven.
What does this mean?
God encourages us to believe that he is truly our Father, and that we are truly his children, so that we may boldly and confidently pray to him, just as beloved children speak to their dear father.
Pulling It Together: The future is unknown, so I better put more money in my retirement fund. I would have less anxiety if I could just get a better paying job. Can the government do more for me? These are the daily worries of so many. But we must look to a surer source of help in life (Psalm 121:1). Should our appeal be to a financial planner or employer, Congress or President? Is there actual hope in these resources — something that may sustain our confidence throughout life? We confess that our help comes from the Lord, that “our help is in the name of the Lord” (Psalm 124:8). Therefore, Jesus teaches us to address our prayer to that great name, to pray to the one who is able to grant us our requests, and who, in fact, wishes to do so. Thus, we pray, “Our Father.”
Prayer: Father, thank you for listening. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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