DRAWN NOT DRAGGED Part 2 (luddite missed the calendar setting!)

PART 2 — “This prayer is not for everyone”

Given to Disciples

Christ does not give this prayer to the crowds. He gives it to those who follow Him. That may sound uncomfortable, but is deeply important. This prayer is not a general spiritual reflection. This is the prayer of those who are being drawn into Christ’s Life.

In the early Church, it was taught only to those preparing for Baptism. It was even kept hidden. Why?  Because to pray “Our Father” is not just to say words— but rather to stand in a relationship that Christ Himself makes possible. As Holy Tradition reminds us, this prayer we dare to say. Not casually. But boldly—because we have been brought near..

Think of it this way: there are words we use every day— and then there are words we do not speak lightly. Words that belong to relationship. Words that only make sense when we truly stand within them. Maybe you have felt or sensed this— that some words are easy to say, but take a lifetime to grow into.

Question: Do I treat the Lord’s Prayer as familiar… or I am still learning to enter this prayer?

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, draw me into the life You have given, that I may pray as Your disciple. Amen.

Fr. Ray Dobson
©2026