When Jesus talked to his Father, the conversations were real and, and sometimes, raw. Check out today’s passage. Jesus prayed under the shadow and dread of the cross. He prayed with “loud cries and tears.” He didn’t recite prayers. Jesus shared his heart with the Father.

Hebrews 5:7-8
In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered.

Jesus didn’t offer platitudes. He didn’t string Christian phrases together. The writer of Hebrews says that Jesus shared his heart, with “loud cries and tears.” He had meaningful, purposeful, and real conversations with God.

I spoke with a friend who is going through significant health challenges. He told me that through the years, he developed the habit of pulling up an empty chair and inviting Jesus to join him. He sits near the chair and has a conversation with Jesus.

Prayer is communication with God … conversation with our Father. Cut the prayer language. Don’t guard your words. Talk to God using everyday language. Pull up an empty chair and ask Jesus to join you as you share your heart with him.

Father, help us talk to you like your Son did. In his name. Amen.