I have 2 Dads and I use that word; Dad, intentionally. There was a time when I had no Dad at all, let alone two and like many, that had a profound impact on my life.
I spent the first several years of life oblivious to my Dad being absent. I was too young to know any different but then I hit the age where I knew my family wasn’t like others and began to ask “why don’t I have a dad – all my friends do? Doesn’t he love me too? Why did he leave? Is there something wrong with me?
I felt rejected, a failure, I felt betrayed and these questions turned into hurts and anger that led to bitterness in my heart. It ultimately affected my outlook on life and how I viewed and approached God. Why would I want to believe in the concept or Father God or Abba and having a relationship with Him when my natural understanding of this role was, well…twisted.
My Mum remarried when I was a little over 8 to the man I now know and call my Dad and as a result of his input into my life, I have learned what it really means to have a Dad and be one (I have 2 kids of my own aged 6 and 2). My Dad’s role model has caused my heart to turn toward God and see Him for who He really is and who He really wants to be for me.
It has, however required some effort and decisions on my part. A real-life decision to adopt this new man as my father. It’s not an easy decision at any age and for many we wrestle with identity in the process but I chose to do it. The experience has also impacted how I see God.
Let’s look at what the scriptures say about how we are to see our relationship with God:
1. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 3:14)
2. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:15)
The Message Bible offers this rendering of Romans 8:14-16 for us:
‘God’s Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go! This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike “What’s next, Papa?” God’s Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children.’
See that word Abba – it literally means “pappa” or “daddy” and is supposed to be affectionate and close.
Consider this: If your earthly father was the leader of the nation, president of the bank, governor of the company, how would you address him upon meeting him?
- Your Highness, may I have an audience with you please?
- Mr. President, may I please make an appointment to speak with you?
- Excuse me sir, but may I have a moment of your time, please?
As a son or daughter, would any of those approaches be comfortable for you? NO WAY! It would be weird and way wrong. Ask yourself an honest question. Most of the time, how do you think about our Creator?
Which title best defines how you first think of Him? Circle the one you use most often:
- God
- King
- Lord
- Father
- Papa
The Apostle Paul really wants to communicate to the first Christians of the Church Age this very important truth, that we are to see ourselves not as slaves, but as sons and daughters. Read Galatians 4:4-7:
‘But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons and because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.’
From all of the above information then, how do you think heaven really wants us to approach the Creator and Maker of all mankind?
About 3 years ago the other Dad miraculously came back into my life after 27 years of nothing. His name is John Walker of “The Walker Brothers” – Who are they you ask? (depending on your age) – a successful Pop group back in the late 60’s to early 70’s. Perhaps you would recognize the song titles “Make it Easy on Yourself” and “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore” anyway – it was an amazing connection and we instantly became friends and that has now developed into family. Another CHOICE I choose to make.
Now, It seems like this was easy huh? Wrong! I had to a choice to make; forgive and forget or; be bitter and angry. I chose the first and it was hard some days, it still is.
In both of these relationships: my Preacher Dad and my Rocker Dad I have had to make a choice not to allow the past to affect the future, I have had to say to these men “I adopt you” into my life and I want us to grow together. I have an excellent relationship with them both and I know that has a huge impact on how I see God as my Father and Friend.
In closing I ask you a question I asked earlier:
How do you think heaven really wants us to approach the Creator and Maker of all mankind – is He your Father AND your Friend?
Photo by: Danielle MacInnes
