Father of the Jews

     In one of his final speeches, Moses expressed disappointment with the people: Is this the way you repay the Lord? Is he not your Father, your Creator? - Deuteronomy 32:6 

     Many centuries later - though they were no longer independent - God still wanted his people to know him in a family way - Father - not king, or judge, or master...although he is all that. 

     We all, regardless of faith, displease God at times. 

     This week, Views by the Sea searches the Bible for "Father" and any other relationship that helps us understand the fellowship he wants with us. 

     Oh, here's one: He said to me, 'You are my Son; today I have become your Father.' - Psalm 2:7

A Son??? And when was "today?"

     You are my Father - my God, the Rock, my Savior. - Psalm 89:26

What's going on here? Saved from what? 

     Much later, the prophet Isaiah writes, For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called...Everlasting Father. - v. 9:6

Isaiah, what do you mean? A child called "Everlasting Father?" 

     But...you O Lord, are our Father, our Redeemer from of old is you name. - v. 63:16 

 Redeemed? Of what? We're the chosen.

     Then there was the breakup of Judah and Israel, almost war. 

     Have we not all one Father? Did not God create us? Why do we profane the covenant of our fathers by breaking faith with one another?     - Malachi 2:10 

Tomorrow: The Son