In the Lord's Prayer, the first petition is for daily bread. No one can worship God or love his neighbor on an empty stomach.

The quote by Woodrow Wilson, "In the Lord's Prayer, the first petition is for daily bread. No one can worship God or love his neighbor on an empty stomach," highlights the importance of basic needs in spiritual and moral life. Wilson is emphasizing that material needs, such as food, are foundational for a person’s ability to serve God and love others. The Lord’s Prayer, in which the request for daily bread is the first petition, reminds us that spiritual pursuits and service to others cannot be fully realized if a person is struggling with hunger or poverty. Wilson points to the interconnection between physical well-being and the ability to engage in spiritual and moral actions.

Wilson’s reflection on the Lord’s Prayer underscores his belief that social justice and spirituality are closely tied. He argues that a person’s ability to worship God and serve others is compromised if their basic physical needs are not met. In this sense, the quote speaks to the moral responsibility of society to ensure that no one is left in poverty, as hunger and deprivation can prevent individuals from fully participating in the moral and spiritual life that is essential to human flourishing.

The origin of this quote comes from Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, who was deeply influenced by his Christian faith and his understanding of social responsibility. Throughout his presidency, Wilson often integrated his spiritual beliefs with his political views, advocating for policies that addressed social welfare and the importance of caring for the poor. This quote reflects his belief in the essential relationship between material welfare and spiritual fulfillment.

Ultimately, Wilson’s quote emphasizes the idea that material needs, particularly food, are a prerequisite for a person’s ability to engage in spiritual and moral actions. The Lord’s Prayer teaches that God provides for daily sustenance, which allows individuals to live out their faith and serve their communities. By stressing this connection between physical well-being and spiritual vitality, Wilson advocates for a society where everyone has access to the resources needed to live a full and meaningful life, both in terms of faith and social responsibility.