Prayer in 5 dimensions
The 1st dimension: The historical dimension: “Do this in remembrance…” Look back…to the Cross
We were: Alienated Enemies Our behaviour evil
We are: Reconciled Holy Without blemish Free from accusation Colossians 1:21-22
We look back in wonder and gratitude for the Cross and all the benefits flowing from it
The 2nd dimension The relational dimension: “…he gave thanks…” Look up…into the face of Abba
“…pray about everything, telling God what we need and thanking him for all he has done” Philippians 4:6 (NLT) (adapted)
We look up in love and trust
The 3rd dimension The inward dimension “This cup in the new covenant…” The covenant of the Spirit Look in…to the Spirit
“For his Holy Spirit speaks to us deep in our hearts and tells us that we are God’s children.” Romans 8:16 (NLT)
As we pray we look in, so as to connect with the Spirit within us As we pray we look in, so as to connect with the Spirit within us. This ensures that our prayers are motivated, not just by our own desires, thoughts and emotions, but are in harmony with the Spirit.
Look in for the Spirit’s: Help Inspiration Passion
The 4th dimension The ‘here and now’ dimension “ I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you…” Look around…
Our life as believers is not meant to be lived in isolation… Our prayers must reflect our sense of belonging to communities beyond ourselves…
“Pray continually” (NIV) “Never stop praying” ((NIRV) “Pray all the time!” (TRGV) Look around…and pray 1 Thessalonians 5:17
The 5th dimension The future dimension “until the Kingdom of God comes” Look forward…
We pray with an ‘until’ as we look forward to the kingdom coming in its full glory when the Lord Jesus appears in his majesty to put all things to rights.
“…while we wait for the blessed hope – the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ…” Titus 2:13 (NIV)
Look back to the Cross Look up to the Father Look in to the Spirit Look around to the world Look forward to the new Heaven and new Earth
COMMUNION Look back to the cross in gratitude Look up to Father in love Look in to the Spirit in expectation Look around – enjoy Family Look forward – Come Lord Jesus!