Thy Will Be Done: The Greatest Prayer, the Christian’s Mission, and the World’s Penultimate Destiny by Daniel O’Connor is a powerful exploration of the Christian call to live in perfect harmony with God’s will. It is not merely a book about prayer but a guide to transformation — of the self, the Church, and ultimately, the world.
About the Author – Daniel O’Connor
Daniel O’Connor is a theologian, philosopher, and Catholic author known for his writings on the Divine Will, prophecy, and modern spirituality. His passion for revealing how ordinary Christians can live extraordinary lives through divine obedience makes this book deeply personal and transformative.
Purpose and Central Message
The book centers around one of the most profound petitions in the Lord’s Prayer — “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” O’Connor interprets this not just as a request but as a mission statement for all Christians. It’s an invitation to participate in bringing heaven’s order, love, and peace into the earthly realm.
The Meaning Behind “Thy Will Be Done”
In this phrase, O’Connor finds the essence of Christianity — surrender. It is through surrendering our limited will to the infinite wisdom of God that true peace and divine purpose emerge.
Why This Book Matters Today
In a world full of confusion, chaos, and spiritual drift, O’Connor’s book offers clarity. It reminds us that aligning with God’s will is not passive acceptance but active cooperation — a sacred partnership with the Creator.
Structure and Summary Overview
Dividing the Book into Five Parts
The 24 chapters are divided into five major parts, each unveiling a deeper layer of the Christian journey — from understanding God’s will to living it, spreading it, and finally seeing it fulfilled in the world.
Part One – The Greatest Prayer (Chapters 1–5)
This section begins by unfolding the mystery behind “Thy Will Be Done.” O’Connor explains that this prayer is the foundation of divine-human unity.
Understanding “Thy Will Be Done”
The author reflects on how the Lord’s Prayer is not just recited but meant to be lived. Each phrase carries a transformative power that molds the heart toward divine likeness.
The Divine Will vs. Human Will
O’Connor contrasts human self-will — often rooted in fear and pride — with the perfect harmony of the Divine Will. He invites readers to see submission not as defeat but as victory in love.
Living the Lord’s Prayer in Daily Life
Through practical examples, O’Connor teaches how surrender can be applied in daily struggles — from career challenges to relationships — showing that holiness is possible in every act done in love.
Part Two – The Christian’s Mission (Chapters 6–10)
This part dives into the responsibility of believers to live out God’s will as a daily mission.
The Call to Holiness
Christians are not just called to believe but to become living reflections of Christ. Holiness, O’Connor explains, is not perfectionism but alignment with divine purpose.
Imitating Christ’s Obedience
The example of Jesus in Gethsemane — “Not my will but Yours be done” — becomes the central model. Through obedience, we become collaborators in God’s redemptive work.
Transforming the World Through Surrender
Here, O’Connor emphasizes that true transformation begins within. A surrendered heart radiates peace, influencing families, workplaces, and even nations.
Part Three – Divine Providence and Human Cooperation (Chapters 11–14)
This section bridges faith and reason, explaining how humans participate in divine providence.
Trusting God’s Plan
When life feels uncertain, trusting the Divine Will becomes the anchor. O’Connor teaches that every trial is a divine classroom designed to strengthen love and humility.
Lessons on Faith and Perseverance
He uses biblical examples — like Job and Mary — to show how perseverance in faith allows grace to manifest through suffering.
Freedom Through Obedience
Counterintuitively, obedience to God brings the highest form of freedom. As O’Connor beautifully puts it, “The more we surrender, the more we soar.”
Part Four – The Coming Era of the Divine Will (Chapters 15–19)
O’Connor shifts from personal transformation to a cosmic vision — a new era where the Divine Will reigns universally.
Prophetic Hope
Drawing from mystical writings (like those of Luisa Piccarreta), he foresees an age when humanity will live in the Divine Will completely — the fulfillment of the “Our Father” prayer.
The Kingdom of the Divine Will
This is not a distant dream but a reality being born. The author envisions a world where love, justice, and divine harmony govern society.
Preparing for the New Dawn
O’Connor urges readers to prepare spiritually — through prayer, confession, and surrender — for this coming era of peace.
Part Five – The World’s Penultimate Destiny (Chapters 20–24)
This final section paints a picture of humanity’s near destiny — a restored world aligned with heaven.
The Ultimate Fulfillment
Here, O’Connor brings together prophecy, theology, and love, explaining that the ultimate goal is not escape from earth but its transformation.
Heaven on Earth – The Final Mission
When every soul lives in God’s will, heaven begins here. O’Connor’s vision mirrors Christ’s prayer: “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Living in Complete Unity with God
The end of the journey is divine union — not merely knowing God’s will but becoming one with it.
Key Themes and Insights
The Power of Obedience and Surrender
Surrender is strength. When we yield our plans, we align with infinite wisdom.
The Role of Prayer in Transformation
Prayer becomes the bridge between heaven and earth — not just asking, but becoming the answer.
Humanity’s Partnership in God’s Plan
We are not spectators; we are co-workers in divine creation.
The Coming Era of Peace
O’Connor’s message echoes hope — that the world is moving toward a new dawn of divine harmony.
Personal Reflections and Review
What Makes This Book Unique
Unlike traditional theological works, O’Connor’s writing blends scholarship with spirituality, making profound truths accessible to modern readers.
Lessons for Modern Christians
It’s a manual for living heaven now — in the home, the workplace, and the heart.
Critique – Strengths and Weaknesses
While deeply inspiring, the book requires patient reading; its depth may challenge casual readers. Yet, its reward is unmatched spiritual insight.
Why Readers Should Read This Book
If you’ve ever prayed “Thy will be done” and wondered what it truly means — this book is your guide.
Conclusion
Thy Will Be Done is more than a book — it’s a spiritual roadmap. O’Connor’s work calls every believer to rediscover the beauty of surrender and the joy of living in divine alignment. It reminds us that heaven isn’t far away; it begins the moment we let God lead.
FAQs
Q1. What is the main message of the book?
Living fully in God’s will brings peace, purpose, and transformation to both the individual and the world.
Q2. How many chapters are in the book?
There are 24 chapters, divided into five major parts.
Q3. Is this book suitable for beginners in faith?
Yes, though deep, it is written in an accessible style that nurtures both new and mature believers.
Q4. What makes Daniel O’Connor’s approach unique?
He combines theology with prophetic insight, linking everyday spirituality to cosmic destiny.
Q5. Can this book transform one’s spiritual life?
Absolutely. Its message of surrender and trust can reshape how you live, pray, and perceive the world.