Father

February 3, 2026 

“When you pray, say, Father." Luke 11:2

Learning to effectively pray doesn't require you to read books, listen to sermons, or watch YouTube videos. All it takes is Father.

When you pray Father, your life will never be the same.

The disciples made a simple five word request of Jesus, "Lord, teach us to pray" (Luke 11:1.) And Jesus gave them a simple five word answer, "When you pray say, Father" (Luke 11:2.)

Why do we make prayer so complicated when Jesus made it so simple?

Father. 

Father is a name of endearment. Intimacy. Belonging. Affection. Protection. Provision. Strength. Loyalty. Faithfulness. 

Father is the shallow waters along the shoreline of God's love. Father is also the Mariana Trench, or the deepest part of the ocean. Father is simple enough for a child to understand, and so vast and profound to keep us in awe.

Father is where you first meet God when you are born again, and Father is the greatest depths you will ever go with God 50 years later. 

Father doesn't lead you to an encounter with God; Father is your encounter.

Father. Father. Loving Father. I call you Father because you call you Father. Father defines you and Father defines me. Father.

YEAR ON FIRE

© Fred A. Hartley, III

All rights reserved

The English Standard Bible (ESV) is normally used, unless otherwise indicated.

This daily Christ-encountering, fire-starter is not intended to replace your daily Bible reading and prayer time, but rather to motivate you to spend extended time in His presence.