I Own You
July 29th, 2011 § 2 Comments
Most of the time, I get an awesome feeling when a person claims ownership or possession of me. What do I mean? Let me explain.
When Ginger introduces me, she often says, “This is my husband, Chance.” While such an introduction is straightforward and plain to the average person, it gives me a great sense of pride and security. I take pride in knowing that I am the man who gets to share life with Ginger as her husband, and I sense security because I know that I am not only hers, but that she is also mine.
When a church member introduces me to their friend, they often say, “This is one of my friends, a pastor from church. His name is Chance.” The term “friend” and “pastor” may be generic words to the general population, but for followers of Christ, they are often chocked-full of meaning. I find delight when a member of ACC calls me “friend” because it shows me that that the person enjoys my company and finds me trustworthy. Similarly, being referred to as “pastor” reveals that he/she sees me as a guide and mentor in the faith.
When a person properly claims ownership or possession over us, it has the potential to fulfill and satisfy us on an intimate level. In many cases, ownership suggests that the possessor genuinely desires fellowship with the asset and wants it to be known that there is a deep relational connection between the two. To illustrate this, consider Paul’s words in I Corinthians 1:21-22 regarding God’s ownership of believers, “It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, and he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised us.”
We are God’s possession; He claims us as His own. Such a proclamation on His part should produce feelings of honor, awe, excitement, pride (the good kind), wonder, thankfulness, devotion, and dedication. In short, such a statement should bring about worship from us, the possession, to God, the Possessor.
You might be your wife’s husband. You might be your mother’s son. You might be your boss’ employee. You might be your neighbor’s neighbor. First and foremost though, you are God’s child. Just a thought.
As a guy who grew up without a father. I love the fact that I have a Heavenly Father and I am His son, His child.
I agree; my dad was in prison from the time I was one until I was in my mid-twenties. God as a father is a wonderful thing. Side Note – Have you read The Shack? William P. Young discusses his thoughts concerning why God chooses to be known as a “father.” Interesting stuff.