Give us this day our daily bread

A visit to a prison in a developing country provided a greater appreciation for the strategic place of this verse in “The Lord’s Prayer.” We were given the opportunity to share the gospel.

This particular prison was notorious for its treatment of inmates. Lack of food, sanitation and shelter resulted in two to three inmates dying weekly from malnutrition and disease. When the guards gathered the inmates into the courtyard that cold morning, the scene broke my heart. It was similar to the photos taken of World War II death camps.

It was clear these men were in no condition to hear the Good News. Instead of preaching, we went into a nearby village to buy food. Only after serving the men and ministering to many health needs did we share God’s love.

From Jesus’ teaching on prayer we learn the importance of our relationship with our Heavenly Father Who is to be hallowed. His Kingdom and His will are to be primary in our lives. But before dealing with the issue of sin, Jesus taught us to ask for our daily bread. Clearly this means more than bread; it represents the things needed to sustain life. We are given permission to ask for our needs. And we can ask even before addressing spiritual health.

When people were hungry and infirm, Jesus fed and healed them. Likewise, as we are able, our prayer for daily bread is accompanied by its provision.

Our response to seeing the plight of prison inmates, in a desperate situation, did not end that day. We began a supplemental feeding program and the Minister of Justice was persuaded to release many inmates. And an important lesson was learned. We must first address the suffering of those for whom Christ died. Only then can we share about the One Who can truly set them free!

Prayer: Lord, keep us sensitive and responsive to the needs of your children who are in pain. Amen