Amidah: Avot: As The Patriarchs

“The Lord of Abraham, the Lord of Isaac, the Lord of Jacob” Only one who asks; “When will my actions achieve what the Patriarchs achieved?” may call on their merit when praying.

The question assumes the possibility that my actions will match those of the Patriarchs. The question itself is a celebration of potential. Only one who lives with such an appreciation of the possibilities of life, may call on the Patriarch’s merit when praying.