For Saturday, September 12, 2026:
John 16:26-27 NLT, Jesus speaking: “You will then ask in my name. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf, for the Father himself loves you dearly because you love me and believe that I came from God.”
In the Hebrew tradition, an intermediary was needed between the people and their God. A priest would fill this requirement. Also, God was thought to be harsh and judgmental. While that wasn’t accurate, the people were nonetheless fearful of approaching him on their own. As it turns out, God actually loves believers, because we love his Son Jesus and we believe Jesus was heaven-sent.
Jesus now permanently occupies that position between God and believers, and Jesus told us to use his name. In the New Covenant, we are told to ask God directly using Jesus’ name. We pray to the Lord using Jesus’ name. That’s why so many prayers begin with words like “Dear God” or “Our Father,” and conclude by saying, “In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Knowing I’m a Christian, people often ask me to pray for them, for healing or for help in a sticky situation. I’m happy to do so and honored to be asked, but I’m tempted to tell them to do it themselves! Jesus said that any believer can pray directly to God using his name. But I don’t mind being the middleman if that gives someone comfort.
As Jesus was crucified, the curtain separating the Holy of Holies from the rest of the Temple was torn in half. Access to the Lord was no longer restricted. So reach out to him today. We have Jesus’ permission to do so. Start with adoration and thanksgiving!
Pastor Norton Lawellin
The Father’s House
Jesus In the City Fellowship
Truth & Freedom Church
