Abba Father

By: Karen Wilson

Today, I read Mark 14:35 – 36.  This is the defining moment when Jesus is standing the garden of Gethsemane, talking with his Father.  The time is upon them when Jesus will soon be betrayed, arrested, placed on trial, beaten and crucified.  And at this moment, Jesus is having a deep one-on-one conversation; parent to child.  Specifically in verse 36, we read “Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you.  Take this cup from me.  Yet not what I will, but what you will.”

Most of us read this verse, understanding some very important lessons that Jesus teaches us.  Perhaps the most memorable would be – let your will be done, not mine.  Or maybe you can relate to Jesus praying allowed with deep emotion “take this cup from me;” not doubting his calling, but a request for the One whom makes everything possible.  And although the answer was not yes, we are forever so grateful for the ultimate sacrifice and burden that Jesus took for each of us.

But let’s take a step back and look at the first 2 words in the verse.  Abba, Father.  Abba is a term that is repeated only a few times in the bible (Mark 14:36, Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:6).  In Jewish tradition, it is a word that is used to address someone with great affection or esteem.  It was a name used by children for their fathers, in which we in English might use as “papa” or “daddy.”  Here it is an expression that shows us the intimate relationship between Jesus and his Father.

We too, as Christians, share this intimacy with our Father.  When we accept Him into our life, He takes us under His wing.  He is not only the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, He is our daddy.  We can go to Him with our every thought, every worry, every sorrow and every joy.  He is our shoulder to cry on when we are hurt.  He brings us peace and comfort during our struggles.  And He gives us joy when we are shining in the glory of His amazing love and grace.

Dear God, Thank you for your comforting blanket that you place over us each day.  We are so grateful to have a loving Father that cares about every aspect of our being.  A protector.  A provider.  Who wraps us up in His arms and covers us with His amazing grace.  We love you Daddy.  Amen.