God Is Our Father!

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, the gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-14 ESV).

 

Like many theologians I have caught myself using big words and elaborate concepts to explain God and our relationship with him. The truth is that the Bible more often uses simple images that are easy to understand. My favorite is that God is our Father and we are his children. It’s really that simple. I have been a father for over fifty years, and I have enjoyed a healthy relationship with my own father. Based on my experience of being both a son and a father, I have a pretty good idea of what a father is supposed to be. I am not laying claim to perfection; however, God’s revealing himself as our Father is a concept on which I can hang my faith.

 

Usually a father is someone older, wiser, and stronger. He is someone with a deep interest in your well-being. He cares about you and provides for you. He knows your name. He is interested in the things that interest you. A good father is available, especially when you really need him.

 

Our reading today declares that all who believe in Jesus are given the right to become God’s children. Faith in Jesus opens the door of belonging to the family of God. In a world where it is easy to get lost in the crowd and feel anonymous and insignificant, there is a Father who loves you. There is a Father calling you home. There is a Father who wants you to know that you are his child. Rest in that truth today!