As we survey the prayers of Jesus, we soon realize that “Father” is His favorite way to address God.
At that time Jesus declared, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was Your gracious will” (Matthew 11:25-26 cf. Luke 10:21-22).
“Father, I thank You that You have heard Me” (John 11:41).
“Father, glorify Your name” (John 12:28).
When Jesus had spoken these words, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son that the Son may glorify You” (John 17:1).
“Abba, Father, all things are possible for You” (Mark 14:36 cf. Matthew 26:39, 42, 53; Luke 22:42).
“Father, forgive them” (Luke 23:34).
“Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit!” (Luke 23:46).
Jesus knew He was God’s Son, and that God was His very own Father. What a wonderful certainty that brought to prayer! Jesus invites us to share the same relationship with the same certainty.