Advent Instrumental – by Don Coppo
But when the time arrived that was set by God the Father, God sent his Son, born among us of a woman, born under the conditions of the law so that he might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law. Thus we have been set free to experience our rightful heritage. You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, “Papa! Father!” Doesn’t that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you’re also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance. Galatians 4:4-7
Thought: Papa! Father!” Because of the birth and death of Christ, because the Father sent His Son, we were born into relationship with God. When we say yes to Jesus, we become God’s children and he is our Papa! Father! Those titles make us heirs that are close… intimate. Not the kind of heirs that receive something from someone they have never met.
Recently, we have been packing my (Clare) parents apartment to get them ready to move into the assisted living center they have chosen. As they are packing things, giving things and throwing things out, they are telling their stories. Each item has a description of friendship, pain, love, or laughter. They are 84 and 86, so the narratives abound!!! What they own, is full of their lives. As we pack up or leave with their things, “our inheritance”, we are leaving with something greater… relationship. We understand them more fully …we love them more deeply… we want to come back and be with them… and hear more about their hearts.
As God blesses you with your inheritance; salvation, provision, comfort, counsel, healing (the list goes on)… ask for the “heart” behind it. Get close to your Papa. The with-God life comes with stories.
Practice: Allow the image above to open your heart to your Heavenly Father’s embrace. Meditate on one of the gifts you have received as a child of God. Find God the Father’s heart for you behind the inheritance He gives. Journal or talk to a spiritual friend about what you are discovering.
Prayer: Papa, thank your for this life and family you have given me. I want to hear the family stories. What is your heart, your stories behind wanting me to have what you give? I don’t just want what you give… I want you. Amen
Blue book (Lectionary) Reading: Galations 3:23-4:7
©csloughrige2011
©Advent Music 2011-by Don Coppo
(picture above is Clare with her dad)