Chris thank you for this. Very topical for me at present and has helped me. Sometimes one thinks prayer has to be on a different level rather than a conversation with our Father.
Let’s say someone has had a terrible relationship with their earthly Father. Let’s say the Father was a violent alcoholic and beat them and their mother for years. So that the word ‘Father’ precipitates a visceral disgust, fear and anxiety... in conjunction with (probably) therapy, could it be theologically valid (and/or pastorally helpful) for someone to pray ‘our Mother in heaven’? How have you guided such people in the way they approach the Lord’s prayer? (BTW i’m not telling my own story, but many people have such experiences). Thanks Chris.
Chris thank you for this. Very topical for me at present and has helped me. Sometimes one thinks prayer has to be on a different level rather than a conversation with our Father.
Let’s say someone has had a terrible relationship with their earthly Father. Let’s say the Father was a violent alcoholic and beat them and their mother for years. So that the word ‘Father’ precipitates a visceral disgust, fear and anxiety... in conjunction with (probably) therapy, could it be theologically valid (and/or pastorally helpful) for someone to pray ‘our Mother in heaven’? How have you guided such people in the way they approach the Lord’s prayer? (BTW i’m not telling my own story, but many people have such experiences). Thanks Chris.
Yes and Amen 🙏🏽