People have varying relationships with food. Some have known times of actual food insecurity and others have always had enough to eat. Others have struggled with over-indulgence. All this goes on while 10% of the world lives on less than $2/day. In the Lord’s Prayer, the word “bread” is indicative of all that is physically needed for sustenance. Gluttony, poverty, materialism, worry, and self-reliance are all problems related to our need for “bread.” Proverbs 30:8-9 wisely prays not to be so rich as to forget God nor so poor as to steal and defame his name.  Jesus taught an important truth about this.

God is our provider.

The “bread” we pray for is physical, spiritual, and Eucharistic. For the physical, our daily bread is more than mere nourishment. It is also meant to be a feast and celebration of God’s goodness. Jesus was so clear on this that he was accused of being a drunkard and a glutton. In addition to feasting, he also knew times of fasting. He trusted his Father’s provision completely and perfectly. 

Give – Our Father is not put out when his children ask humbly for what they need, and even want.

Us – This is a prayer for all people as a collective whole, not just ourselves.

Our – We work for “our” portion. We also respect others and don’t take what doesn’t belong to us.

Daily – God desires to feed us moment by moment rather than with a large surplus.

Bread – Jesus himself is the True Bread that comes down from heaven. 

Taking It Home: Don’t be anxious about food or clothing. God knows you need it. Don’t hang on too tightly or place ultimate hope in material things. Pray and receive your food with “glad and generous hearts” (Acts 2:46-47).