The Father’s Thoughts

“It is an item of faith that we are children of God; there is plenty of evidence in us against it. The faith that surmounts this evidence and that is able to warm itself at the fire of God’s love, instead of having to steal love and self-acceptance from other sources, is actually the root of holiness … We are not saved by the love we exercise, but by the love we trust.”

(Richard Lovelace)

It was a Tuesday afternoon, and my dad’s voice rang out clearly through the phone receiver. 

“What do you think I think about you?”

That single question sparked a conversation that would radically shift our relationship (for the better) for years to come. Because I was able to verbalize some misperceptions and fears I’d harbored much too long, we broke through to a new level of closeness. There we stood, with 1800 miles between us, finally seeing one another as we really were. And love could bridge the gap in a beautiful way that it couldn’t while I was busy projecting beliefs onto him. 

What do you think the Father thinks about you?

Not my dad, but our Dad, God the Father, our Abba. What do you assume goes through that infinite mind when He fixes His gaze on your frame?

Disappointment? Apathy? Anger? Sadness? Confusion? Boredom? Maybe criticism or contempt?

The Sunday school answer would be something along the lines of “I think He thinks about me with love and joy.” And, while that’s certainly a biblically sound response, it often doesn’t match what we suspect deep down in the pit of our souls. 

Just as analyzing what I believed my earthly father thought of me and bringing it out in the open to him changed how we relate to one another, so coming to grips with what we believe our heavenly Father thinks of us can make all the difference in the world. It’s okay to be honest; He sees us more clearly than we’ve ever seen ourselves. He knows what’s going on inside our hearts. Putting our misperceptions and fears into words won’t worry, shock, or offend Him. 

It might just be the best conversation we’ve had with Him in a long time.

Dragging lies into the light is the only way love can wash over them and bring healing to our broken places. He meets every uttered suspicion with mercy. You thought He doesn’t have time for you? No, child. He’s inscribed your name on the palm of His hands. Or you’ve imagined a frown on that face? Just look at the grin from ear to ear, all because you are His. Feel like the ultimate letdown? He’s too busy singing over you, exulting with happy shouts. 

Come home and listen to the Father’s thoughts.