Synopsis
When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, Jesus taught them fifty-three words which we call The Lord's Prayer. It’s a relatively short prayer, as prayers go, but I believe Jesus chose his words carefully, packing this brief prayer with deep meaning. But, how often have we raced through this all too familiar prayer without focusing on the meaning of each line? Would our spiritual experience be deepened if we recited this prayer slowly, pausing to contemplate the message within? For the past two years I have tried this more methodical approach to The Lord’s Prayer, beginning each day by saying this prayer, slowly out loud. It has made a big difference for me and it has strengthened my relationship with God. As I began to write this devotional, very deep, personal feelings started to pour out. And so, this devotional is also my story, from childhood dreams, through heartbreak, from anger and resentment, to acceptance and a still growing faith. All, thanks be to God. I invite you to start each day by reciting the Lord’s Prayer, slowly. Feel recharged and focused to face each day and all its triumphs and disappointments. So here is The Lord’s Prayer, written slowly. Take a little extra time and reflect on each line. Don’t be in a hurry. That will make all the difference.
About the Author
I am the author of 5 published books, including three devotional books: Eleven in Heaven, My Most Meaningful Bible Verses, and Coaching Youth Basketball With Faith and Fundamentals I have also developed a devotional schematic called - "The Pyramid of Spiritual Success." I have an author's website - www.mikekayes.com where there is information about all my books as well as a blog focusing on Coaching Youth Basketball, Character Development Through Sports, Education, and Spirituality. Attending and sometimes facilitating the Life Applications Sunday school class at Davidson United Methodist Church is a highlight of my week. In addition, I participate in a Friday morning men's bible study group. The heartfelt conversations and close relationships I have been blessed to have in these two groups has helped me formulate most of my spiritual writing, including my most recent devotional books. I also lead another adult ministry at our church called the Legacy project, which involves interviewing and recording the history of our senior members. We conclude each of these stories with "spiritual reflections." In nearly all cases these mature Christians talk about their personal prayer life, and how important that is to their faith. As I developed my latest devotional - The Lord's Prayer, slowly, I was often reminded of these heartfelt conversations with these wise elders. Sports have always been a big part of my life. In fact it is difficult to remember a time when I wasn't either playing or coaching. Over the years, my core values were forged during athletic competition and the connection between sports and spiritual growth never ceases to amaze me. About 15 years ago, during a disciple bible study, a friend and I started a youth sports ministry called Stewards of the Game, which we launched in 2000. It was a true blessing to direct the basketball operations for the first 11 years. A significant part of this sports ministry was developing two booklets comprising over 60 sports devotionals. My most recently published book, Life Lessons From Tom Taber, was inspired by real life stories working with youth over the past few decades. Professionally, I am the founder and President of Willingdon Wealth Management, a Huntersville, NC money management firm, and have been involved in the investment business since 1983. My wife, Mary Lynn, and I have been married since 1986 and have three children: Sean, Marlee, and Brennan.
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