Abba: my word for 2025. It’s a signpost, a word that spurs the direction of my year’s spiritual walk. As I began studying Aramaic last fall, I occasionally bumped into the word Abba. I love that Jesus called his Father this precious name, but honestly, I’ve felt uncomfortable when others have used it in a manner which seemed all too casual. My Daddy? How can I call on the majestic, omnipotent, mighty God of the universe in such a fashion? Isn’t it a bit disrespectful to call Him a name so informal and familiar? But in my digging, I’ve learned it is a title of honor and respect, not a childish expression…a name reflecting great affection, trust, intimacy, confidence and perhaps the hardest, obedience. I knew immediately I wanted to grow in all the fore-mentioned areas this year and the name Abba would serve as a good reminder. Right up front, I’m asking myself why I’m so uncomfortable? Is it fear of such intimacy or my lack of understanding?
Yet, I have a beautiful suspicion that the more I sit with Jesus, the more I’ll bump into Abba, Father. Hebrews 1:3 tells us Jesus is the exact imprint of his Father’s nature (ESV) so of course, I want to spend even more time hearing Jesus in the Scriptures this year. I want to move so close to God that my heart can’t help but approach Him with deep adoration and submission. Even this morning upon arising, I heard myself whisper, I love you, Abba. It’s going to be a profound journey!
Posts
