| Cross Words: First Name Basis |
Richard Prow ~ rpcrosswords@gmail.com
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Being on a “first name basis” with someone involves more than simply knowing that person’s first name or using it during a conversation with them. The phrase suggests that you have a more intimate relationship with them. Your conversations go beyond simple surface talk. There is a willingness to be vulnerable, allowing your feelings and emotions to transfer from one person to the other effortlessly. Condemnation and destructive criticism are not permitted in this relationship’s inner sanctum.
The Bible declares that every living soul has the opportunity to have that same type of close relationship with God. Romans 8:15 states that we have the privilege of crying out “Abba, Father” when addressing the creator of all things. That implies more than just an casual conversation with an occasional acquaintance. It describes a deep, meaningful, tender kinship, laced with grace and saturated with unconditional love.
There are many who believe in God or a god, yet they are fearful and cautious in their dialogue with Him. They see God as a supreme cosmic dictator with little time for our petty lives or the problems those lives bring. They offer monetary sacrifices and make inane promises to gain His audience. They speak with raised voices in the ‘King’s English’ as if He is hard of hearing or bends an ear only to those with proper diction. Sadly, to most He is not someone to whom they would simply and affectionately refer to as Father.
For those however who have accepted God’s offer of a real and tangible relationship, there is the easiness of speaking to Him with confidence, faith and a clear conscience (Hebrews 10:19-22). Within the conversation there is no fear of rejection and there is no secret that is off limits. He is approachable and patient and His first name is “Father.”
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