In the famous Oval Office photograph, small John Kennedy plays under the desk of his working father, the president. That is what the Lord’s Prayer looks like (Matthew 6): we embrace a Father and bow to a King at the same time, and in his office we are not an interruption but the most important thing in the room. Asking for the kingdom to come is also an assignment, because the Hebrew word behind Genesis means to put a stop to something. The preacher holds up Polish hospitality toward refugees from Ukraine as the example. Listen and ask what in your own surroundings deserves a firm no at last.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Matthew 6:9-15 Jesus teaches us to address God as Father and then right away to pray for His kingdom to come. What does this combination tell us about who God is?
- In Genesis 1:28 God gives people the task to subdue the earth and have dominion over it. How do you understand this task in light of the words "Your kingdom come"?
- The speaker noted that our prayers often boil down to "thank you, help me, I'm sorry." What part of the Lord's Prayer is most often missing from your own prayers?
- The photo of President Kennedy's son playing under his father's desk served as a picture of prayer: we hug the Father and bow before the King. Which of these attitudes is harder for you, and why?
- At an arts camp the speaker's son "found his people," and out of that sense of belonging a song was written. How does belonging to God's kingdom and to our community shape what you create and do?
- On the cross Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive them," calling wrong what it was while also showing grace. In which difficult relationship can you bring the kingdom this week by combining truth with grace?
