A dialogue between children and their heavenly Father

 "Give us this day our daily bread." (Matthew 6:11)

The prayer Jesus taught is concise, just five verses, yet it holds a universe of meaning. Within its brevity, we find all our needs encompassed. This single verse holds so much to contemplate.

Each word demands our attention.

Give: In this word, we discern reliance on God. Those who utter it acknowledge their dependence, humbly admitting their insufficiency. They attribute no goodness to themselves, relying wholly on God's generosity and mercy.

Us: This word stands free of selfishness. The one who speaks it does not seek solely for themselves. It is not "Give me" but "give us."

This day: Here lies faith. Those who possess it don't ask for a year, a month, a week; they seek for today. Tomorrow rests in God's hands, and faith reassures them. Their trust in Him is steadfast. It also shows that the one who says ‘’this day’’, he prays every day, does not ask for one month at once.

Our: Those who pray like this, they don’t ask for someone else's bread, but the one which is meant for them, they don’t think that others have better and more. They don’t say: ‘’Give us our neigbour’s bread, his bread is better’’. They are content with what they have, they are grateful for the gift of God.

Daily bread: It shows contentment, moderation, they ask for what is necessary, they don't seek luxury.

Most importantly, this dialogue is between children and their heavenly Father, not a plea to a distant stranger. The Father gladly gives what His children want, he does not get tired of their requests.

From my diary,

August 14,  2023