The Psalmist writes, “Holy and Reverend is his name” (Ps. 111:9). While it is accurate that God wants us to come to him as His child at any time, unlike the ancient kings of this earth, we must not treat this easy access and family tie with such casualness that we approach Him with irreverence. As Creator, he deserves our utmost respect and His name reflects his power and majesty. Years ago, when I was just a boy, a young visitor was asked to lead a public prayer in one of our assemblies. He started his address with the words, “Dear Daddy.” I understand that “Abba” was such a term of endearment but the English word fails to reflect the chasm between mortal man and the eternal God of Heaven. I will not stand in judgment against someone who addresses God with such language, but I offer a word of caution that we not bring him down to our level nor lift ourselves to His level.
Jesus leaves an outline that starts with a recognition of the holy name of God. He is to be worshipped and praised and if public prayers lack anything, it is the insufficient time taken to praise the name of God. We should be in the habit of approaching Him with respect by taking the time to address Him properly. How would you feel if your child spoke only what he or she thought necessary and with such a hurried pace because they had somewhere else they would rather be at that moment. Like the proverbial activity of our daily home life, we rush in, slam the door en route to our bedroom while yelling out to our parents, “Hey Dad” Hey, Mom.” Five minutes later, we rush out of our bedroom, grab something to eat from the refrigerator before we open the front door, saying “See ya, Dad” and “See ya, Mom.” Worse than that is when they say, “Love ya, Mom.” Now, imagine the same child taking the time to sit down at the table to visit and hear about the lives of dear loved ones and the day that was spent. Imagine the child washing for supper and sitting down to enjoy a meal and the company of his family. Imagine him getting up from the table with dirty plates in his hand en route to the kitchen sink and a kiss for his dear mother for her untiring labor of love and the good supper that she prepared for her family. If you can appreciate the difference, then you should never treat your heavenly Father with such indifference, as He is to be praised and adored above any earthly mother. “My Father, hallowed be your name.”