M-G: 3.18.11 // Pick Up the Phone, Matthew 6:9b

“Our Father in heaven”

Think about an amazing communication device of bio-creation so advanced that the amplitude of the signal can reach beyond the realm of the Universe at the speed of thought with crystal clarity; we call this piece of bioengineering – prayer.

God is the Father of all men in a creative sense, but here in the Sermon on the Mount, our Father represents only those in a redemptive sense. Therefore, this pattern of prayer is only for those who possess true inner righteousness; in other words, the reception has already been activated through faith in Christ. Access, however, is available to all men who desire a relationship with the Father, but it is only through faith in Christ (Jn 14:6).

There are no singular pronouns in this model prayer, only plural ones. This suggests that the body of Christ is organic. All prayer, public or personal, impacts the body of Christ in some way! And if our prayers are answered, it will always benefit the body of Christ (of which we are part!) and glorify the Father. Any prayers that would pose a negative impact on the body of believers or fail to glorify the Father are eliminated. Self-centeredness is nothing more than a virus to the body of Christ.

“Father” speaks of nearness, family, love, warmth, approachability, caring, a listening ear, guidance, comfort, security, and support. “Heaven” speaks of perfect purity – holiness and uniqueness, a place that is unlike anything on this sinful planet. Beyond the vast stellar regions is where our real home is located. Saying “Our Father” is acknowledging His sovereignty in our life, His right to reign and rule over us; “in heaven” is recognizing His sovereignty over the Universe. He is the Almighty God. Yeah, we have an awesome Father.

The throne of grace is just a prayer away (Heb 4:16). The Father gives all of His children a celestial connection, and personal holiness keeps that line open. Only when we toy with sin are we disconnected. Fellowship, not salvation, is broken. We lost the signal and coverage is re-established when we confess (or agree with God about) our sins (cf. 1 Jn 1:9).

Praying is an attitude of life and something done on a regular basis (1 Thess 5:17). Pick up the phone and make that call to our Father in heaven. What’s the point of faith if we never pray, yes?

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Php 4:6-7). <><