8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 8:15For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of sonship. When we cry, "Abba! Father!" 8:16 it is the Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 8:17 and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. Other Translations of this passage are available HERE. Abba! You will note this word is not translated, it is in it original Aramaic; this is not too common in the Bible. When literally translated it means "Father," But, this translation falls far too short--so short indeed, that it isn't used. The word implies a high level of personal intimacy. This isn't too common with our earthly Dads, but it is common with Grandparents, Grandmothers in particular.
There is a HUGE and diverse universe of nick-names for Grandparents--many of which are unique to that child's grandparent, others a bit more common, but still 'highly personal'. Nana, Pap (mine), Gampa, jaja, and countless others that defy spelling.
I say all this because, this kind of relationship with God is available to us. It is ours for the asking. In fact, even when fail to pursue this level of intimacy with God, our heavenly Father; the scriptures assure us that the Spirit bears witness on our behalf as 'authorized.'
When we accept the saving Grace of Christ, we immediately join an inclusive family. One in which the we are provided for as co-heirs in the rewards and blessings of our Father, Abba. A family that can't be earned, or bought; but one that freely testifies that we belong, and on our behalf.
Hands down, this is my favorite passage of scripture. [Should we really have favorite scriptures?] The gifts that it reveils are all but blinding. At the same time, the standard that it sets gives me a goal to strive for in all my thoughts, words, and deeds; and for all my days.
I have no idea what it will look, feel, or be like to be "glorified with [Christ]," but I can't imagine a greater reward or a loftier goal.
I'm "pressing on..."
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