The Our Father

Sister Mary Claire, with her young friend Kathy, and the cheerful Corgi, Mini, made their way along the snow-covered streets of Omaha. The air was crisp and the city was quiet, save for the crunch of their steps and the occasional bark from Mini. They had just left the sanctuary of the church, hearts full from the Holy Mass and minds reflecting on the Gospel reading they had heard.

The words from the Gospel according to Matthew lingered with them: "In praying, do not babble like the pagans... Your Father knows what you need before you ask him." It was a message that encouraged simplicity and faith in divine providence, which Sister Mary Claire held close as they walked.

Kathy, bundled in her coat with bread in her pocket, remembered the part, "Give us this day our daily bread," and she thought of the bread as more than just a snack for their journey. It was a symbol of the providence they prayed for, a tangible reminder of the daily blessings they received and shared, even with Mini, who wagged her tail in appreciation.

As the Hotel Fontenelle came into view, they were silent in contemplation. Sister Mary Claire whispered a prayer of gratitude, Kathy squeezed Mini's furry side, and Mini looked up with bright eyes. They knew they were not alone on this walk; their faith was a warm presence, as comforting as the winter coats they wore and as certain as the path that led them home.

Today's Gospel Reading

Jesus said to his disciples:
“In praying, do not babble like the pagans,
who think that they will be heard because of their many words.
Do not be like them.
Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

“This is how you are to pray:

Our Father who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy Kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

“If you forgive men their transgressions,
your heavenly Father will forgive you.
But if you do not forgive men,
neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.”