Abba Father

At the table, Christ bleeding on the Cross was kept before my eyes constantly; and strength was given to me to believe that I was receiving pardon on account of that blood.  I lost my burden; I went home leaping for joy, and I said to my neighbour who was sad, "Why are you sad?  I know my sins have been forgiven!"

On June 18, 1735, being in secret prayer, I felt suddenly my heart melting within me like wax before the fire with love to God my Savior.  I felt not only love, peace, etc. but also a longing to be dissolved, and to be with Christ.  Then was a cry in my inmost soul, which I was totally unacquainted with before, “Abba, Father!  Abba,Father.” I could not help calling God my Father: I knew that I was his child, and that he loved me and heard me; my soul being filled and satiated,cried, “Tis enough—I am satisfied; give me strength, and I will follow Thee through fire and water.”  I could now say that I was happy indeed. There was in me a well of water, springing up to everlasting life, John 4:14; yea, the love of God was shed abroad in my heart by the Holy Ghost, Romans 5:5.

– from the personal journal of Howell Harris (1714–1773)