Luke 11 – THERE are occasions when prayer sets the tone to, and forms an example of, the spiritual life. One such occasion is the family meal when from an early age children can become accustomed to the giving of thanks. There are few more charming experiences than to see the head of a two year-old child bowed whilst father renders thanks for the food provided. The meal can even be permeated with the spirit of worship and an assurance of hope, if, sometimes, the Lord’s prayer is used, modifying it in one place only: “Bless this day our daily bread …” This “pearl of prayers” brief but comprehensive, simple in expression, yet profound in meaning, would then be restored to our affection and remembrance, instead of being neglected.

JOHN MARSHALL, The New Life, pages 98,99.