Is There Life Out There?

by HJS

Jesus knew His hour had come. He poured out His heart to His Father, saying "Abba, Father...everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will" (Mark 14:36). For a few brief moments, ponder the elements of His simple prayer in relationship to your own personal prayer life.

First, "Abba, Father" speaks of a relationship. Perhaps the closest English equivalent of "Abba" is "Papa" or "Daddy". It is intimate, loving and dependent.

The second element of His prayer is a reminder of the Father's capability. "Everything is possible for you," He says. He knew the Father spoke the word and brought the world into existence. He knew that nothing limited God's power and, thus, He quietly reminded both His Father and Himself that nothing is beyond God's ability to do.

Then Jesus made His request - "Take this cup from me!" He knew that He would die in the hands of the Romans. Death was not His fear. He feared being separated from the presence of the Father.

Finally, Jesus recognized His Father's preeminence or supremacy - "Yet not what I will, but what you will."

So is it OK to pray specifically for what you want? Absolutely! That's what Jesus did. Don't beat around the bush when you talk to God. Get specific. Outline your views. Ask what you will, but - and this is vitally important - do what Jesus did. Put your need in His hands and submit your will to His great will. He knows what is best for you.

Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father."   Galatians 4:6