Sometimes I simply share with you what has been passed onto me.

Come to think of it, that's what being a Christian is all about.

Anyway, here's an item that has been in my file for years, but it is as relevant today as ever.

You and The Lord's Prayer:

I cannot say OUR, if my religion has no room for others and their need.

I cannot say FATHER, if I do not demonstrate his relationship in my daily living.

I cannot say Who Art in Heaven, if all my daily interests and pursuits are in earthly things.

I cannot say Hallowed Be Thy Name, if I, who am called by His name, am not holy.

I cannot say Thy Kingdom Come, if I am unwilling to give up my own sovereignty and accept the righteous reign of God.

I cannot say ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN, unless I am truly ready to give myself to His service here and now.

I cannot say GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD, without expending honest effort for it or by ignoring the genuine needs of my fellow humans.

I cannot say FORGIVE US OUR DEBTS AS WE FORGIVE OUR DEBTORS, if I continue to harbor a grudge against anyone.

I cannot say LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION, if I deliberately choose to remain in a situation where I am likely to be tempted.

I cannot say DELIVER US FROM EVIL, if I am not prepared to fight in the spiritual realm with the weapon of prayer.

I cannot say THINE IS THE KINGDOM, if I do not give the King the disciplined obedience of a loyal subject.

I cannot say THINE IS THE POWER, if I fear what my neighbors and friends may say or do.

I cannot say THINE IS THE GLORY, if I am seeking my own glory first.

I cannot say FOREVER, if I am too anxious about each day's affairs.

I cannot say AMEN, unless I honestly say, “Cost what it may, this is my prayer.”

I bet we won't mindlessly recite The Lord's Prayer next time, will we?

Kollmeyer is senior pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Fayetteville.?

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