Introduction and Index

Jesus said, "This is how you should pray, "Our Father in heaven:" - Matthew 6 v 9

See how much the Father has loved us! His love is so great that we are called God's children - and so in fact we are. - 1 John 3 v 1

As kind as a father is to his children, so kind is the Lord to those who honour him. - Psalm 103 v 13

Father, my Father in heaven! I only dare call you that because the Lord Jesus has taught me that that is how I should address you. I'm sure he didn't just mean that as a kind of courtesy title. I'm sure he was encouraging me to come to you, my loving Father, my merciful Father, so that I might experience for myself your nearness, your sympathy, your care. For you are kind to me. You forgive the wrong I have done. You strengthen the inner me. You are merciful and loving, slow to become angry and full of constant love. You do not punish me as I deserve, nor do you repay me for the wrong things I have done.

You are my Father in heaven. This is awesome! You are supreme over everybody and everything. Yet you are my Father! You are great beyond my wildest imaginings - all-powerful, all-knowing, eternal - and still you are my Father! Not like the all-too-often imperfect creatures so many human fathers are. Rather, you are my perfect Father - perfect in your care and your love, in your provision for my needs, your protection of me in times of danger, in the instruction and guidance you give me. Your love lasts for ever!