(A devotional taking a word by word look at the Lord’s Prayer. This week, we look at Father.)
Father
Out of the whole prayer, I think I love this word the most.
Father
Jesus could have addressed him differently. He could have said God, or Lord, or the Almighty. He could have used an Old Testament name like El Shaddai or Jehovah Jireh, but he didn’t.
He used the word Father. If ever I have doubts about how God feels about me, I just look to this word. He is our father.
That implies so many things.
It indicates a very real connection. A relationship.
It means he cares.
It reminds us that He is looking out for our best, not waiting at the door to berate, but waiting to welcome us home.
It shows us how he thinks of us, not as experiments or pets or failures, but as children. His children.
It gives a foundation to hope that he will
lead us
provide for us
teach us
and show us how to stand on our own two feet.
He is our Father.
He is strong.
He is smart.
He likes to give us presents and spend time with us.
He’s got a sense of humor.
He deserves our respect.
And we are family.
He will not leave us alone when life breaks our heart.
He will not ignore us or treat us like strangers.
He will listen, love, and lead.
He is our Father. We are His children. There’s nothing we can do that will ever change that.
Some scholars say we can use the word Abba for father which is more like saying, “Daddy!” Have you talked to your daddy today?
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God.” I John 3:1
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