The truth is that we who are in Christ have been adopted. We’re sons (and daughters). What does this mean? Well, what would be the first thing that you’d look forward to after adopting a new child? For me, I think it’d be getting past the empty rhetoric that is inevitable for a new kid in a new home. To get that cute little guy out of “guest” mode and into “son” mode.
“May I put my feet up? Thank you for the meal, Mr. Ripley. Should I call you that? Or Brett… or Dad? Can I use the car? Are you sure you want to give all this to me? You know that I didn’t do anything to deserve this…”
I think I’d want to skip right to where the sheepish formalities fade away- where the little guy is comfortable enough to be real around me- to be himself. Where he doesn’t have to address me in a fake, smiley tone. Where honesty could give way to, “Dad, I need help,” or “Dad, I’m not alright. I’m kinda lonely,” or even “Dad, I screwed up. Could you forgive me… and help me out of the mess I got myself in”.
This is the place where he can trust me. Where I can take him on adventures though he might not know exactly where he’s going. Where I could discipline in love to keep him on the right track. Where the little guy can fall asleep in my arms. Where relationship begins. Where love can happen.
Christian, where are you at with God? Still have the “all-together” smile on? Still wondering just what kind of words he will accept for your prayer? Or can you tell him that you’re not that great even if you probably should be? Where you can be real with the ugliness of issues and sin struggles? Are you at home enough to say, “Hey Dad, I just need you here now.”
If you still feel like a stranger in the house of the holy Father, trying not to wrinkle the sheets or spill your Coke, I encourage you: move in your stuff (yeah, the yucky stuff too), eat from the fridge, grab foods from the cupboards. When things go wrong talk to your dad. Not because we deserve all of it, but because Jesus died, in love with you, to make it possible. And your dad wants it so much. In all of our modern adult problems and responsibilities we are all little children next to a wise, powerful, and lovingly adopting father.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Heb 4:16)
