But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts crying, “Abba! Father!” (Galatians 4:4-6 ESV)
As I hear these words, two thoughts come to mind:
My first thought is how blessed I was to have the Dad I had. One who, though strict, showed me what it means to be a loving father, and who was not only my Pop, but my best friend as well. The word “Abba” signifies that type of relationship, and it is like the one God wants to have with each of us.
Secondly, I think about the word adoption. Those of us who have been blessed to grow up born into a loving family realize we were placed there through God’s divine intervention. This is a marvelous gift, but adoptive families are somewhat different. The child in an adoptive family was chosen. This is quite a special relationship, one which the chosen child may not always perceive, but the adoptive parents show that child an unconditional love. This is the same relationship we share with God in that, through Christ, he has adopted or chosen us. Sometimes we fail to see that, but he never deserts us. He is always there to be our loving “Daddy”!
May we all remain grateful for this wonderful gift.