Reading: Matthew 6:13
“For yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.”
Reflection: Alexander the Great conquered a vast portion of the known world before his death at age 32. His brutal force, combined with incredible tactical warfare and bravery, led to him being remembered as one of the greatest conquerors of ancient times. Alexander had a massive kingdom and used force to expand it, gaining great glory as a result. Historical accounts say he died of a fever caused by a mosquito bite, while other theories suggest his soldiers poisoned him for refusing to be worshipped as a god.
The end of the Lord’s Prayer places the final seal on the prayer, acknowledging to whom worship belongs. It reminds us that God is ultimately in control, with His kingdom reigning above all earthly kingdoms (even though all that is on earth belongs to Him). The universe is still largely unknown to us, nearly two thousand years after Alexander’s death. God’s power is not the kind of power we use; His power creates, produces, and bears fruit. This fruit multiplies and needs no jealous guarding or conquest like many rulers require. In this case, power is not oppression but freedom. Therefore, all glory belongs only to Him, not just for 32 years or two thousand years after death, but forever. This is far more than we can comprehend with our small minds. Yet, He came down to us and gave Himself over to us.
In these uncertain times, let us remember through this prayer that God is in control, holding everything in His hands, and that His kingdom, power, and glory last forever.
Prayer: Lord, we offer ourselves as living sacrifices before You. We surrender our lives to You and ask that You lead us in accordance with Your will. Forgive us our sins and give us the courage to come to You with repentant hearts. Teach us how to forgive each other, how to show the power of freedom, not oppression. Protect us from the evil around us and within us. Provide for our needs, and we trust that You will give us what we need. For yours is the kingdom, power, and glory, forever. Amen.