When the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.
– Galatians 4:4-5 (NIV)
God waited till history reached his appointed time and sent Jesus. Just the right time — Roman rule, Jewish subordination, good roads, freedom, a degree of safety, a common trading language, cruel and barbaric punishment accompanied by religious infighting. In times such as these, he sent his Son to be a woman’s son. He emptied his home so he could send a redeemer to our home. He did it so we could be his children — not pretend children, but real children, with full rights. So he could not only be God, but so he could be Father God. The rules of the kingdom of heaven are not for restriction and subjugation. Father God manages His family well and the children of the house respect Him… rightfully so… His rules set us free.
Father, even your name is precious to me. I gasp at how much it cost you to let me call you Abba. I don’t understand such extravagant love, but I thank you for it. I know I don’t deserve to call you Father, but it sounds so right. Something inside resonates at the sound of Father God — Holy, Righteous, Almighty, Loving! While I know that I will never be a perfect child, I rest today in the confidence that I am your child and you claim me. Thank you in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Ken Crawford 