Thursday – 11^th Week in Ordinary Time

Gospel – Matthew 6:7-15

It’s All in the Name

Chapel of St. Joseph, Nazareth

Ever notice how a name, what we call someone, speaks volumes about our relationship with them.  Sometimes formal and aloof, sometimes affectionate, sometimes comical and relaxed.  When I was little, I always called my father “Father”.  It was formal, respectful and reflected a very proper sort of relationship.  It reflected my view of him as a rock, steady and strong.  As life went on, though, that relationship changed and I began to call him “Dad” and our greetings always included a warm hug. 

One regret I have is that my dad never had the chance to enjoy being a great grandfather!  He would have been awesome!  I can just picture him with Tyler or Nate as infants, rocking them on his knee, holding them up high like an airplane or passing on his unique sense of humor.  His pride over watching them perform at a Spring concert, as they got that college acceptance email or when they crossed the stage and received their UT diploma!  That sense of love, of joy and contentment would have been so bright and co would have enriched the whole family.  And I wonder what affectionate, great-grandfatherly name Tyler and Nate would have given him!  Isn’t that what being a ‘dad’ is all about!  Developing and nurturing a loving relationship!  It is what today’s Gospel encourages us to do in our relationship with God.

The Jews in the Old Testament and in Jesus’ time had a name for God – Yahweh.  It was the name God called Himself with Moses at the burning bush.  It was and is a word that Jews will never speak out loud.  It is a word of reverence and respect, like a subject for their king.  It speaks of a relationship of obedience and awe for someone I am not worthy to even call by name. 

But then Jesus comes along and, in today’s Gospel, turns everything on its head.  He tells us to call God “Abba” when we pray.  Let’s be clear; Abba does not mean “Father”.  It means ‘daddy”.  It’s the word a little child uses for their father.  It’s a word full of love and affection.  It speaks of a new and different relationship that Jesus calls us to.  God is closer to us than a king to his people.  God is our dad.  He loves us like a dad.  He cares for us, guides us and protects us like a dad.  He rejoices with our successes and He comforts us when we stumble

Relationships!  It’s all in the name!

 

Signed,

PaPa