thanksgiving prayer report - We’ve heard fragments of the opening thanksgiving before that praises the excellent reputation and work of the recipients (Colossians 1:3-4; 9, 18, Philemon vs. 4-5); such a thanksgiving formula functioned essentially as a eulogy that sought to engender goodwill between writer with recipient, but now with added emphasis. [1]

petition - A clear shift moves the reader from thanksgiving into petition. The prayer wish is for the recipients to receive a "spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him." Such a prayer has an interesting history: the Essenes included it in their liturgy for those entering the covenant ("May he illuminate your heart with the discernment of life and grace you with eternal knowledge"); early on, Christian baptism was referred to as "enlightenment." [2]

Jerome [ ca 377 ] - His phrase "eyes of the heart," clearly refers to those things we cannot understand without sense and intelligence . . . Faith sees beyond what they physical eyes see. Physical eyes are in the heads of not only the wise but the unwise. [3]

[4] Which of the things that Paul prayed could you use most in your life right now-a spirit of wisdom and discernment to know God better? Illumination and enlightenment concerning the Christian life and resources? Power available to us to live faithfully and confidently?

How might you change if your small group or community of faith prayed verses 17-19 every week for an entire year?

How much of God’s energy are you using at the moment. What is keeping you from receiving even more of this divine energy?

Please see He Who Fills All in All as an excellent homily on this passage.

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[1] The New Interpreter’s Bible XI (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 2000), page 380.
[2] Ibid, page 381.
[3] Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture VIII (InterVarsity Press, 1999), page 121.
[4] Serendipity Bible (Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing Co., 1998), page 354.
[5] Barbara Brown Taylor, Home Another Way (Cambridge and Boston: Cowley Press, 1999), p. 135.