Paul speaks to us in Romans 8:14-15. “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 

The spoken language of Jews in Israel in Jesus’ day was Aramaic. “Abba” is an Aramaic word for father. It indicates an intimate relationship, perhaps daddy, papa. Jesus uses the word Abba in prayer. He uses it along with the regular Greek word for father, “Pater.” Perhaps pater is a bit more formal, meaning one who gives life, often referring to our heavenly father. Jesus calls upon his father with the words, “Abba, Father.”

Abba is heart language. Abba is a feeling word, but also a discipleship word. Abba expresses intimacy, a spirit of sonship, the opposite of fear. Yet, it’s not only about the intimacy; it’s also about the heart of obedience in the one who cries out, Abba.

The God of unconditional love is your Abba, your Father. May he be with you.

I hope you enjoy this rendition of “Abba, Father” sung by Ron Hamilton.

Judy