By Francis Frangipane
We recite it in private and pray it in unison; we have even sung it in reverence on select Sunday mornings. It's been a familiar prayer at somber cultural events, such as memorials or funerals. Yet I wonder if we really grasp what was in Jesus' heart when He taught His disciples the Lord's Prayer.
The disciples asked Him, "Lord, teach us to pray" (Luke 11:1). In response, the Lord gave them a prayer, not just to help them cope but something that was militant in nature. This was more than a prayer -- it was a proclamation of war (Rev. 11:15; Dan. 2:44).
For centuries the holy realities of the Lord's Prayer have been obscured by traditions of religious unbelief -- as though ritualistic repetition of this prayer would provide special blessings in the afterlife. The deception was that Jesus spoke only in terms of eternity, as though this prayer was disbarred from affecting conditions on earth now. In recent years, however, the Spirit of Truth is again opening our eyes to the boundless possibilities of this prayer in this current dispensation as well: "Thy will be done on Earth!" This is cry is rapidly becoming the anthem of the righteous, a prayer for now as well as eternity!
The Year of Release
By Francis Frangipane
In spite of increasing tensions around the world, the Holy Spirit says, for many, this next year will be a year of release. While we must absolutely intercede for our nations, we also must refuse to become fearful or restrained by the pressures of the world around us. The constrictions experienced by this age are not death throes, but birth pangs; they are not part of what restricts us, but releases us.
"Do not focus on the fearful things around you, the threats of terrorism or the portent of economic collapse; focus steadfastly upon your transformation!" God is doing a quick and deep work, and this world is the perfect setting in which to manifest Christlikeness. Darkness provides the perfect contrast to the rising glory of the Lord within us. "So, look for My release," says the Lord. "For this year it shall come powerfully and suddenly."
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