I just listened to one of my favorite songs, “He Knows My Name”, and was reminded of something I wrote in my journal a while back. I wrote this right after I had listened to the same song to begin my quiet time. I hope that these thoughts and the song will remind you what a privilege it is to call Him Father.
As I was praying during my quiet time–or rather as I began praying–I addressed God, as I always do, as “Father.” At the moment I said that word in my heart, I became overwhelmed with the thought that God truly is my Father. I’ve addressed Him hundreds, if not thousands, of times as Father, but I’m not sure that the real meaning of that truth has ever penetrated my heart. For ten minutes, all I could utter in my heart was the word “Father,” as my mind was was overcome with images, thoughts, and feelings of what it meant that the God of the Universe calls me His child. The safety of being held by someone so much stronger than myself. The warmth of being cared for with such compassion. The assurance of having someone to turn to when I’m hurt, afraid, lonely and overwhelmed by my failings. The joy that comes from knowing I have a Father who cares enough about me to disicipline me when I sin, yet does so out of perfect mercy, grace, and immeasurable love…At times I can feel so alone, so disconnected, so shattered by life–or, more honestly, by my sinfulness and rebellion. Yet you remain faithful–ever-faithful. You remain constant. You remain loyal.
Thank you, Father.
