Finally, the last installment of the series. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
This one seems a bit strange. Sure, no one really wants to be tempted. Being tempted sucks. Temptation leads to sin, and sin to separation from God. It makes sense to ask to not be tempted.
But is that what Christ meant here?
Well, Christ may not lead us into temptation, but that does not mean that we are not tempted. There is a difference from being lead into temptation and being allowed to be tempted. Its not like Christ is taking me to a strip club or a porn shop. However, temptation persists.
The question then is what we do about this temptation?
Temptation can be a good thing. As odd as that may seem, temptation gives us the opportunity to choose God. It gives us the chance to lean not on our own strength, but to rely on God and build our relation with Him. I suppose that is what the last line of the prayer is about, "but deliver us from evil." God is all about relationships, even in situations where Satan is trying to take control. God is pretty freaking kick ass.
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