We had a wonderful occasion at church today. Recently my daughter, Emily finished the communicants’ class. Today was the high point of the class: she took the vows to become a member and was able to take communion for the first time.
I must say that I shed a few tears. My Emily is a very serious, tender hearted child. It has been such a pleasure to see her grow in the Lord. Watching her answer those questions so honestly and eagerly moved this mother’s heart. Her countenance has the glow of a believer and it thrills me.
He’s living up to His reputation.
Prior to communion, and the children joining our church family, one of our pastors gave a sermon that I will not soon forget. Well, actually – a good portion of it I have forgotten because there is one thing that he said that continues to ring in my ears. In fact, its ringing so loudly that its all I can think about…
At one point, we read part of the Lord’s prayer. Our pastor stopped at one point and made mention of the first phrase, “Our Father, who art in Heaven hallowed be your name…” He said that it means we are to praise Him, and make known His work on the earth, giving glory to His name. We’re to make His reputation the best known name around the world. Those are the words.
They are still ringing now.
Well, I have to tell you I’ve known the Lord’s Prayer for a long time, since grade school when we’d say it every morning at the start of the day. All this time, I believed I had that part down – the hallowed part, that is.
Turns out, its the part I’m worst at. Do you know why? Its simple. I like to work at making my reputation great. Its not that I don’t praise the Lord or worship Him. But I know there are times when I promote myself. Its so true, I’d rather make my name known. Often I talk about myself and my accomplishments more than His. This is the truth that has really penetrated my heart today.
But, He is more than His reputation.
As I think back on the morning, I am thankful. When I look at my daughter, I see Him moving in her heart. As hard as it is to admit sometimes, I see Him working on my heart, too. Even more important, when I look at the world around me, I see His redeeming love in motion. He is answering the very prayer He taught us to pray.
What I learned this morning is true; it is important for me to make His name great on the earth. I should make more of HIM much more often. However, I also know that He has a reputation that no one can destroy. He will continue with His plan to redeem the world to Himself and that is good news for everyone.
I will never read these words in the same way again…
9 Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11Give us this day our daily bread.
12And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
This is His reputation and He owns it : His kingdom is coming. His will is being done. Power, glory and honor truly do belong to Him entirely forever. I know its true. My daughter and I, each in our own way, caught a glimpse of His glory, today…
daily portion 