In a sense it is, and always has been, since uttered by Jesus, both at the same time, depending on one's willingness to abide by G-d's Holy Law. To one who abides in the Law, it is the most wonderful promise which could be made to such an individual, a realm of perfect peace and justice. On the other hand, to one who refuses to abide in G-d's Holy Law, a rebel, an unrepentant sinner, it can, and should be construed as a warning, at the barest minimum.
As to my injunction as to *how* we should intone this prayer, I've long been distressed by how congregations throughout the entirety of the Christian church go about praying the Lord's Prayer, in a monotone, like a poorly memorized poem from a junior high school literature class.
When we say "Thy Kingdom come," it should be a statement of fealty to our Sovereign Lord. If we expect Him to recognize *us* as "loyal and worthy subjects" it falls upon us to state our allegiance to Him in a manner becoming loyal and worthy subjects to the greatest of Kings. A manner that includes joy, a deep desire to see, and be an integral part of , His Kingdom. A monotonous sing-song just doesn't cut it here. Say it like you mean it, and furthermore, truly mean it indeed.
As to "Thy will be done," that is a bit easier to explain what I mean. Even if you've never served in a military organization, the average person has at least *seen* how a soldier or the like acknowledges a command given by a superior. *THAT* is how those words should be spoken, in my opinion.
I have a belief that *this* particular thing may be something that could separate the the committed, from the lukewarm, or at least be an indicator.
Of course, this is conjecture/opinion only, but it rings at least potentially true to me...
the infowarrior
6-7 yrs ago I used to attend a men's mid week prayer group.There were 4-5 of us for the most part and at the end of every meeting we stood shoulder to shoulder and offered that very prayer to God.The words became precious to us and the import of every word grew as the weeks went by.The more we considered it,the more we meant it.We always viewed it as a "most wonderful promise" thank God!
In the context of the "season" we find ourselves in,you're right,it sounds also as a warning at the barest minimum.A very sobering one.