“Thank you for seeing me, sir.”
“Hello, it’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”
As she waited for the job interview, Jeanie just couldn’t decide what she’d say. Maybe a simple, “Hi,” would be best. Or would that be too casual?
“Mr. Millard will see you now,” the pleasant receptionist informed Jeanie with a smile, gesturing toward the VP’s door. As she stepped closer, the door opened. A smiling, relaxed man extended his hand, and said warmly, “Welcome, Jeanie, have a seat and tell me more about …” She spoke her first sentence naturally and comfortably.
What have you said to God lately? Maybe you don’t know what to say. Then remember that God makes what you say to him easy and enjoyable. How? He’s broken the ice by speaking to you first and warmly engaging you in dialogue. “We cry, ‘Abba, Father’ … we are God’s children” (Romans 8:15,16).
God has made himself easily approachable. He has welcomed you by opening the door through Jesus Christ. To sinners seeking his love he speaks with terms of endearment, gently inviting with words like “child” and “lamb.”
And God even offers to translate your mumbling, bumbling prayers into heavenly language and direction. “The Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God” (Romans 8:27).
God is eager to listen to your voice. He enjoys your words. Praise him. Pray to him. Give thanks to him. It starts with letting God have the first word as he opens the door.
PRAYER: God, you let me get so close to you and your heart. You make yourself so available and approachable. Yet you remain so divine and untouchable. May this mystery of faith enrich my prayer life. I want to be closer to you, and to bring others closer to you, too. Amen.
FURTHER MEDITATION: Take a mental and spiritual inventory of your prayer patterns. Do they keep you at a distance from God? Safe? What would it look like for you to be more vulnerable with God? What would it look like for you to let him be himself with you? Pay attention to this in your praying this week.