This will be a very interesting chapter as it is Jesus’ prayer. He starts by addressing himself to the Father. That is always a good place to start when we pray. We want to acknowledge the greatness of our God and all that he has done. I’ve often used an acronym A-C-T-S for my prayer time. Or for people who fear praying out loud in front of other people, this is always a good standby form.
A = Adoration – give glory and honor to God. C = Confess – time to tell God what you’ve done and are sorry for, asking for forgiveness and pardon. T = Thanksgiving. For me, this can go on for hours…thanking God for all of his blessings and even for the trials because he has been right there beside you. S = Supplication. You can ask God for stuff. Sometimes I just think of the “S” as “stuff” because supplication is such a big word. A word we don’t often use in everyday conversation. Google says its “the action of asking or begging for something earnestly or humbly.”
But prayers are simply talking to God. While he may already know our hearts and our needs, hearing from us is what he loves. Talking to him helps us build our relationship. Think about how it is with friends and such. You can’t get to know each other or share life together without spending time talking.
With God, it’s even more important. Jesus knew that and prayed often. His line of communication with his Father was very good. Now it was time to ask to be glorified. The time had come. The reason Jesus came was about to be fulfilled. To glorify is to give praise and honor.
If there was any doubt, Jesus cleared it up. He said, “And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.” I don’t know about you, but I want to know God and Jesus better. Having the privilege to spend eternity in their presence is such a beautiful gift, and the price has been paid for us. Think of that. The price has been paid. It’s mind-boggling really.
Take some time today to just sit quietly in God’s presence and be still. Listen for his voice.
Let’s pray. Lord, you are mighty and all-knowing. You know how I am hurting today. I feel your loving arms around me and you are squeezing me tight. You are the creator of all things. I cannot begin to fathom how truly amazing the complexities of the world are. And yet, you love me. Your Spirit watches over me. I am so grateful. May I sing your praise and give you honor in all things. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
