I know what I’m supposed to do at the name of Jesus: bow, confess that He is Lord. But in the name of Jesus? I’ve never been totally sure.

 The title of my blog is often uttered at the end of a prayer or sermon. It is a bold, yet still reverent assertion. As helpless, hapless sinners, we gaze in humble adoration at our truest Friend. Opening the door, letting Him into our messy situations. Jesus always wants to be there for us, to deal with the problems and stressors that afflict us. We don’t do this of our own accord. We can’t try to be better prayers, or have a better attitude. Jesus sees us and meets us as we are, where we are. There are no levels of achievement when it comes to prayer; in fact, Jesus seems to despise the man who comes to the worship space, theatrically altering their voice and mannerisms, thanking God that they aren’t like so-and-so. We don’t need to put on airs, to influence God (which is manipulation), or make empty promises in exchange for a favorable answer.

The Holy Spirit teaches us how to pray in the name of Jesus. That weariness of heart you’re feeling in this crazy, helpless world? Let it be naturally opened and repaired, in the name of Jesus. That quivering, trembling uncertainty? Place it under the Comforter, in the name of Jesus. Our heart is a repair shop, and operating room, and then a restful recovery room as we begin to eagerly and more frequently return to our prayerful spot – in the name of Jesus, who loves you unconditionally.

Pastor Art