Surviving Chaos

Being a Parent is a blessing. As Charissa grows, she is starting to make sounds resembling words. As a proud daddy, I am pleased to say her first word was “dada”. MaryEllen says she only said that word first because of my constant teasing. Either way, I can celebrate her achievement. But it’s been a long time since Charissa called out to me in her sweet, tender voice. Instead of saying “dada” she’s moved onto other words like “mama” and “brabra”. She is growing up so quickly.

A few days ago, I had a tender moment with my daughter. As MaryEllen was getting ready for the day, I knelt next to the bed, looking fondly on Charissa. In the midst of her playing, she looked up at me and with a smile on her face she spoke softly but purposefully my name, “Dada”. My heart softened and a huge smile crossed my face. I was thankful my daughter recognized my face and enjoyed my presence. I relished her calling out to me, not in a moment of pain, fear, or demand, but in a moment of love, pleasure, and appreciation.

As I treasured this tender moment, I wondered how God feels when we call out to Him; not in a moment of pain, fear, or demand, but in a moment of love, pleasure, and appreciation for who he is. We reflect on the Awesomeness and Majesty of God. We appreciate the Power and Might of our Lord. But how often do we focus on the tender thought that God is our Father? “God sent him [Jesus] to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.  And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.”  Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.” (Galatians 4:5-7 NLT)

God hears us no matter how we call out to Him. When we cry out in our pain, fear, or demand we can rest assured that our cries will reach his ears. But have you considered the tender moments; the moments where we simply express our love, pleasure and appreciation for who God is to us? Have you considered the times where you simply call out his name because you rejoice in being his son or daughter? When was the last time you stopped for a moment and gave God the gift of your time and appreciation for adopting you into his family and calling you one of His own? If it’s been a while, why not take some time now? Take a minute, clear your heart and mind and call out to your Heavenly Father, not in a minute of distress, but in a tender moment He’d treasure.