Father Buddy shared this with several church members during his ministry at Epiphany. Thanks to Jean Kerr for saving it all these years and making it available to us now.
I cannot say “Our” if my faith has no room for others.
I cannot say “Father” if I am not his child.
I cannot say “Who art in heaven” if all my pursuits are based in earthly desires.
I cannot say “Hallowed be thy name” if I am the only one in control.
I cannot say “Thy Kingdom come” if I am unwilling to receive his kingdom.
I cannot say “Thy will be done” if everything has to be my way.
I cannot say “On Earth as it is in Heaven” unless I am willing to give myself to his service.
I cannot say “Give us this day our daily Bread” if I ignore the needs of others.
I cannot say “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us” if I continue to harbor ill will against others.
I cannot say “Lead us not into temptation” if I choose to remain in sin.
I cannot say “Deliver us from Evil” if I choose to follow its path.
I cannot say “Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the Glory” if I live in fear.
I cannot say “Forever” if I remain anxious about today.
and I cannot say “Amen” unless I honestly say “Cost what it may, this is my prayer.”
