The Rosary in a Year: Day 8 - Our Father in Heaven
With Fr. Mark-Mary Ames | Hosted by Ascension
Release Date: January 8, 2025
Introduction
In Day 8 of The Rosary in a Year podcast, Fr. Mark-Mary Ames delves into the profound significance of the "Our Father" prayer within the Rosary. As part of Phase Two, titled The Biblical Roots of the Rosary, this episode meticulously examines the scriptural foundations that underpin each prayer, fostering a deeper connection between listeners and their spiritual practices.
Biblical Foundations: Genesis 32 and the Our Father (00:00 - 12:30)
Fr. Mark-Mary begins by exploring Genesis 32:13-32, the poignant story of Jacob’s reconciliation with Esau. He recounts how Jacob, fearing Esau's wrath over the stolen birthright, approaches his brother with an extravagant caravan of gifts:
“He thought, I may appease him with the present that goes before me, and afterwards I shall see his face. Perhaps he will accept me.” (00:10)
This narrative serves as a mirror to how humans often approach God — with fear, reverence, and the burden of sin.
The Approach to Prayer: From Fear to Freedom (12:31 - 25:45)
Fr. Mark-Mary contrasts Jacob's fear-driven approach to Esau with the manner in which Jesus instructs believers to approach God through the "Our Father" prayer. He emphasizes that:
“When you pray, he doesn't say approach God like somebody who's really mad at you, to whom you owe a great debt.” (15:20)
Instead, believers are encouraged to approach God with the freedom and confidence of a child:
“Come with reverence, you come with adoration, but also you come with the freedom and the confidence of a child coming to his father or her father who loves you.” (20:15)
This paradigm shift transforms prayer from a transactional interaction into a heartfelt conversation rooted in love and trust.
Personal Reflections: A Son’s Relationship with His Father (25:46 - 40:00)
To illustrate this, Fr. Mark-Mary shares a personal anecdote about visiting his father’s law office as a child:
“I would just go right as a little son into the office... I would just hang out in his office totally free.” (30:05)
This story highlights the contrast between professional, transactional relationships and the intimate, loving bond between a child and a parent. Fr. Mark-Mary draws a parallel to how believers should interact with God:
“We have God who is mighty... But also, Jesus wants us to come quite simply, quite humbly, quite freely.” (35:40)
Building 'Prayer Muscles': Practical Steps for Deeper Prayer (40:01 - 50:30)
Fr. Mark-Mary outlines the practical steps listeners can take to cultivate a more profound prayer life:
- Start Small: Begin with manageable prayer routines.
- Add Over Time: Gradually incorporate more elements into daily prayer.
- Reflect and Meditate: Use scripture, sacred art, and saint writings to deepen understanding.
He encourages listeners to reflect on their relationship with God, questioning whether they approach Him with love and confidence or out of fear and obligation.
Conclusion: Embracing the Our Father (50:31 - 60:00)
The episode concludes with a communal prayer, reinforcing the day's lessons:
“Let us come simply, totally, completely, humbly, confidently, as a child comes to his father.” (55:10)
Fr. Mark-Mary emphasizes the transformative power of approaching God with a heart full of faith and love, reminding listeners that the "Our Father" is not just a prayer but a pathway to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God and Mary.
Notable Quotes
-
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames
“When you pray, he doesn't say approach God like somebody who's really mad at you, to whom you owe a great debt.” (15:20) -
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames
“Come with reverence, you come with adoration, but also you come with the freedom and the confidence of a child coming to his father or her father who loves you.” (20:15) -
Fr. Mark-Mary Ames
“We have God who is mighty... But also, Jesus wants us to come quite simply, quite humbly, quite freely.” (35:40)
Final Thoughts
Day 8 of The Rosary in a Year offers listeners a profound exploration of the "Our Father" prayer, intertwining biblical narratives with personal reflections to illuminate the essence of approaching God with both reverence and heartfelt trust. Fr. Mark-Mary Ames successfully guides listeners toward transforming their prayer practices, fostering a more meaningful and enriched spiritual life.
For those interested in following along or accessing the complete prayer plan, visit Ascension Press.