Hennie Symington

…hallowed be your Name … Matthew 6:9

To a Jew, a person's name was more than just a way of identifying the person physically; your name also reflected something of your nature. In this case there is no doubt that the prayer is directed to God. In the Old Testament God's name stood for God himself. The name of God was thought to be too holy to pronounce and He was referred to in Hebrew as simply ha-shem, 'the name'.

When we pray that God's name will be made holy we are praying that God himself will be given the reverence and honour due to him. Giving reverence to God also means acknowledging his place as ruler of the world.

When we pray these words we acknowledge the nature of God as holy and distinct from ours. This will lead us into closer walk with our Creator and striving for holiness within ourselves. Reflect therefore, on the character of God, and ask Him what you need to do today to hallow his name.

Prayer: Lord in a profane world sacredness is scarce. Yet, you have made your home in our hearts and souls. Let me be mindful of your presence in both the sacred and the ordinary. Amen