Have you ever watched a child playing in the room where their parent is sitting? Maybe you remember doing so, but perhaps it was so natural and ordinary that you don’t remember. And as children grow up, they want to play where their parent can’t see, can’t interfere, can’t give advice, can’t judge. And as children get even older (I’m talking about adults now) they do sometimes come and ask for help (babysitting, decorating, money-matters) And sometimes they just want to know you are there, alongside them. Even if they’ve done something bad.
We call God, Father. Partly because Jesus did, and he encouraged us to as well, and partly because he really is a father to us – whether we see ourselves as small children, adolescent rebels or a bit more mature.
So how do you talk to him? Is it the chatter of a small child wanting father to know and see; is it the absence of trying to be self-sufficient; is it an on-going conversation that affirms life is better with than without, a relationship-sustaining way to keep father near and welcomed and involved, respected and honoured and loved?
“Rejoice evermore, Pray without ceasing” 1 Thess. 5:16,17.
Raymond.