He's Kind of a Big Deal

In Matthew 6, we find Jesus teaching the disciples how to pray. This is really cool because it's like having Paula Deen teach you how to make fried chicken. Nobody makes fried chicken like Paula and nobody prays like Jesus. We've got the expert! If ever you wanted to improve your prayer life, now's your chance. Court is in session and the King is in Court so listen up!

Jesus tells us to start out our prayers with, "Hallowed be Your Name". Really? I always thought I was supposed to start my prayers with, "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" At least that's how I've always done it. Hmmm...maybe there's more to this prayer thing than I originally thought.

All kidding aside, I think Jesus makes a point that's worth our attention. We need to pause and realize who we're talking to. When we enter into the Presence of the Almighty we should remove any part of ourselves that would be prideful or assuming. The Creator of the Universe is worthy of our worship.

I am a HUGE U2 fan. One of the greatest dreams of my life would be to meet Bono in person. A couple of years ago, my brother-in-law, Jim, called to tell me of a pastor's conference he attended in which Bill Hybels showed a video of himself interviewing Bono. As my brother-in-law went on with his story I stopped listening and my face glazed over. Jim stopped and asked what was wrong. I said, "Jim, you know Bill Hybels, right?" to which Jim replied, "Yes". Then I said, "Jim, if you know Bill Hybels and Bill Hybels knows Bono then that means I'm only three degrees from Bono"!

This got me to thinking. If and when I meet Bono, do you imagine I will barge into his home demanding back stage passes and memorabilia? Of course not! I will fall all over myself trying to tell him how great I think his music is. Yet, too often when I come before my King and Redeemer, the only thing I'm tripping over is my list of demands.

Oh how great is my Heavenly Father. I want to be mindful of who He is each time I enter His Presence. May we never lose sight of who we're talking to. As we enter the Holy of Holies let us embrace His love with humility and grateful hearts!

Thank you, Jesus, for reminding us that our God is "kind of a big deal". And in case you were wondering...I'm still waiting for Jim to make that introduction.