Father’s Day invites us to ask a very important question – what does it mean to call God “Father”? Most of the major religions of the world believe in one God—but that the supreme Being is not just “King of the Universe” or “Master” but “Father,” who desires us to have a close, familiar relationship with Him – these are ideas you especially find in the teachings of Jesus. To call the first person of the Trinity “Father” means that God is a God that cares for the needs of all. The God whom Jesus calls Father cares about us and knows us intimately— “Every hair on your head is numbered (Mat 10:30).” He loves us more than we love ourselves and knows us better than we know ourselves.
In Scripture there are many different names used to describe God. While all the names of God are important in many ways, the name “Abba Father” is one of the most significant names of God in understanding how God relates to people. The word Abba is an Aramaic word that would most closely be translated as “Daddy.” It was a common term that many young children would use to address their fathers. It signifies the close, intimate relationship of a father to their child, as well as the childlike trust that a young child puts in their “daddy.” The benefits of being adopted children of God are many. Becoming a child of God is the highest privilege and honor that can be imagined.
As we come to understand the true nature of God as revealed in the Bible we should be amazed that God not only allows us, but even encourages us, to call Him “Abba Father.” It is amazing that a holy and righteous God, who created and sustains all things, who is the only all-powerful, all-knowing, ever-present God, would give us this privilege of calling Him “Daddy.” Join us this week at Sedona United Methodist Church as the Rev. Dick Snider offers a message looking at the importance and true gift of a relationship with “God the Father.” Sunday mornings we enter the spirit of worship at 9:30 am featuring meaningful and uplifting music, special times of prayer and passionate life changing messages designed to move you closer in your relationship with Jesus Christ and others. Immediately following worship, you are encouraged and invited to stay and join us in our Fellowship Hall for the friendliest and best fellowship time anywhere featuring delicious snacks and great coffee and always friendship.
Final registrations being accepted for the “Emerson Theater’s Summer Youth Camp”—June 18th through July 14 (featuring live performances) for children and youth ages 6 to 17 hosted by Sedona UMC. For more information or to register call (860)705-9711 or call the church office at (928)282-1780. Spread the word! Scholarships available—hurry as space is very limited!
We offer a number of book and bible studies: Wednesday’s our Men’s Bible Study at 9am; and Thursday’s our Women’s Bible Study at 9:45am. So many great missions, ministries and events happening at Sedona UMC—Visit our website at us on www.sedonaumc.org and “Like” us on Facebook. We would love to pray for you!—Prayer requests may be submitted online or by calling us at 928-282-1780. We are conveniently located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road off the Back O’Beyond roundabout on Route 179 in Sedona. All are welcome at Sedona UMC—Come and grow with us!
