Nerd In The Word: The Lord's Prayer (verse 9)

In this episode of the Nerd in the Word series on the Lord’s Prayer, we slow down and sit with just one verse—Matthew 6:9—a line so familiar that it can be easy to recite but hard to truly absorb:
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

What does it really mean to call God “Our Father”?
This is more than a title—it’s an identity-shaping truth. Jesus invites us to approach the Creator of the universe not with fear or formality, but with childlike trust. In calling Him “Abba, Father,” we’re reminded of the closeness, care, and covenant love that define our relationship with Him. Yet, in the same breath, we are grounded by the words “in heaven”—a reminder of God's transcendence, sovereignty, and holiness.

We also unpack what it means to hallow God’s name. This ancient word isn’t just about reverence in language; it’s about living in a way that honors who God is. To hallow His name means to set it apart as sacred, to elevate it in our hearts, our homes, and our habits. It’s a call to worship—not only with our lips, but with our lives.

Throughout this conversation, we reflect on how Jesus begins the model prayer not with personal requests, but with deep relational grounding and divine adoration. This verse lays the foundation for all that follows—shaping the posture of our hearts before we ever utter a need.

Reflection Questions to Take With You:

1. When you pray “Our Father,” what kind of father do you picture God to be?
   How have your past experiences shaped your ability—or struggle—to trust Him as Abba?
2. What would it look like to “hallow” God’s name in your everyday life?
   Are there places where you may be casually carrying His name, rather than honoring it as holy?

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Thank You!

Gretchen
https://gretchenstevenson.com/