1. How to pray (1-4)

The disciples came to Jesus with a noble request, asking him to teach them how to pray. Jesus responded by providing a model of prayer for us to follow. In Jesus, we have a new identity as God's precious children and when we come to God in prayer, we call him 'Father' and offer him our sincerest worship, praise, and thanksgiving. Next, we pray for his will to be done and for his kingdom to come. In complete dependence, we ask him for what we need. We seek his mercy and forgiveness as we forgive others. We depend on his strength and power to overcome temptation of evil. It is good for us to reflect on the nature of our prayers. Do they follow the Lord's example?

2. Our attitude in prayer (5-13)

Unlike the man who was already in bed with his children at midnight and didn't want to get up to unlock the door, our Lord is ready and willing to hear and answer our prayers. Jesus invites us to ask, seek, and knock. As a loving Father, God responds to the prayers of his children with perfect love. Even evil, earthly fathers give good gifts to their children. How much more is this true of our holy and infinite God! When we ask him for the very best gift of all, the gift of the Holy Spirit, he is eagerly grants our request.