For thine is the kingdom, and the
power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
(Matthew 6:13b)
Normally, a selection like this one is easy for me. Little did I realize the amount of research this line would prompt. This line is not in Luke at all nor in the oldest Matthew manuscript, circa 200 AD. Starting in the 5th Century, at least 10 different variations surfaced before the final version was adopted in the 9th Century.
A doxology, as it is called, was a normal ending for a prayer or a Psalm in Jesus' day. Some feel this line was inspired by the much longer version in 1st Chronicles 29:11. I never knew any of this.
Still, this provides an opportunity to compare the differences between our earthly existence and a heavenly point of view. Even the best of the earthly kingdoms like Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans had their dark sides. In our times, Nazi Germany, Communism, and Al Qaida have few redeeming qualities. While America is the best place on earth to live today, we too have our shortcomings. Fortunately, our glimpses of heaven tell us it is always full of light.
Power viewed by humanity can be seen as political, financial, or destructive among many others. Terrorists are often a small minority who want unlimited power over others and will use destructive means to achieve it. Still, even our most powerful nuclear weapons are no match for a major earthquake or a Katrina type hurricane. Just look at the universe and you can quickly see how insignificant even this power is.
Each year, champions are crowned in football, baseball, basketball, and other sports. Performers have the Oscars, Emmys, and a host of other awards. How often do we see people celebrating the glory of a victory? Ever see a rainbow, sunset, or a seemingly endless field of flowers? Consider all of the many marvels in the universe. That, my friend, is glory.
Kingdoms come and go. Leaders die leaving all of their power behind. Those who win championships or awards rarely repeat. Time does not exist for the Father. His kingdom, power, and glory will never end.
Amen. So be it. Say it loud. Say it like you truly mean it. Father, let everything I have prayed come to pass according to your will. Do you really mean it when you pray?
Grace and peace in the power of the Holy Spirit.
(J. Wesley McComb is a published author and a member of Christ Episcopal Church, 1534 7th St, Slidell, 643-4531.)
© by The Slidell Independent newspaper; originally published on October 22, 2009. Used by permission of publisher and author.