After we have spent some time reflecting in prayer on our privileged position as a deeply BELOVED child of the Heavenly Father, Jesus said to pray…
“Hallowed be Thy Name.”
Matthew 6:9
What does this mean?
To “hallow,” is to revere as holy and set apart. Let me give you an analogy:
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Arlington National Cemetery, is guarded Twenty-four hours a day by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard.” The Tomb is hallowed ground. The Sentinels chosen for this prestigious and highly selective post undergo rigorous training and testing. Their guard regime is precise. They march 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb, turn and face east for 21 seconds, turn and face north for 21 seconds, and then take 21 steps down the mat. Next, the Guard executes a sharp “shoulder-arms” movement to place his/her weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors, signifying that he or she stands between the Tomb and any possible threat. The number 21 symbolizes the highest military honor bestowed: the 21-gun salute. If a Sentinel were to disregard the strict rules of the Guard, he/she would bring dishonor to this sacred Tomb.
Even more sacred is our perfectly Holy God, who calls His people to bring Him honor by—living holy.
“You shall be holy, for I am Holy.”
Leviticus 19:2; 1 Peter 1:16
It is a high honor to be a Sentinel guarding the Tomb; but it’s an even higher honor to represent God. In this part of the prayer, Jesus brilliantly draws us into the awe, wonder, and beauty of God’s holy presence and raises our awareness of the great privilege it is to be in His Majesty’s service! We have a high purpose and it is a great privilege to belong to Him.
So let’s begin…
Holy Father, make my life holy so others may behold the beauty of Your holiness.
“Holy, holy, holy are You, Lord of all the Heavenly hosts; and the whole earth is full of Your glory!” (Isaiah 6:3) Lord, in this dark world, the beauty of Your holiness is often difficult for me to see. Thank you for Your Word to enlighten me. I am Your child, the work of Your hands, I am called by Your name.
May my life bring you honor—as the mountains, oceans, birds, and all creation in heaven and earth praise You!
“Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?” (Exodus 15:11) Oh Lord, I surrender my unruly heart. May I praise You and honor You as You deserve. As I venture out into the world today, may all I say and do be a reflection of the beauty of your holiness. Keep my heart from idols. Be the center of my thoughts and the reason for all I do.
Oh Lord, may all I do be for Your glory.
“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14) Lord, in my relationships with others, help me to be kind, gentle, merciful, long-suffering, and loving—even when circumstances are very, very difficult. Lord, strengthen me to love others the way You love me so people will know the beauty of Your holiness!
Oh Lord, I want others to look at me and—see ONLY the purity of Your Spirit.
“For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” (Isaiah 57:15) Oh Lord, I long to dwell in the beauty of Your presence. Humble my heart, for I know You resist the proud and give grace to the humble. (James 4:6) I desire Your gracious presence more than fine gold. Grow within me a deep awe and wonder for Your presence.
Oh Lord, You are the greatest satisfaction of my soul.
May my soul be constantly revived in the beauty of your holy presence!
Now that we have solidly grounded ourselves in who we are (child to the Heavenly Father) and what our purpose is (to glorify God); it is quite a natural segue to pray…
“Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.”
(Matthew 6:10)
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One Response
Amen this is well said..
So that all who wonder if they are heard.. All I can say is do you listen to the still small voice that is saying come to Jesus and repent..
then believe on God’s Holy gift of salvation thru Christ our Lord Jesus.