I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god. Isaiah 44:6 

Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Matthew 6:9

Here we are a couple of days after Christmas, on one of the twelve days of Christmas that go through Epiphany. For some, it’s a bit of a letdown after all the excitement leading up to Christmas day. It can seem like an end – well Christmas is over now until next year. So much focus on presents, and seemingly so little on the present that God has given us. Christmas, the day we celebrate Jesus’ birth, is just the beginning. The name Emmanuel, of course, means God with us.

In Isaiah chapter 44 God makes sure the people know that He is the one and only God, not just one of the many gods and idols they manage to keep worshipping. Apparently they need to be told this over and over again as they forget and look to idols. Instead, God is the One, there at the beginning as the Creator of everything, and there with us until the last. Not to mention being with us all the time.

When Jesus disciples ask for advice on how to pray, they are told to start out with acknowledging the one God. A God who created us and actually can be called “Our Father.” Not a remote God who created things and then went off to do over things. A God who is with us, cares for us, and loves us always.

Eternal Father, we are grateful for our eternal presence and your holy invitation to come to you as your beloved child. Our Father in heaven, with our whole being we worship you. Help us to trust in you alone as our God. In the assurance of your great mercy and love, lead us forward with courage. Help us to share your love with our neighbors. Amen.

Chris Gabel

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party