Approaching G-d

The first thing that I thought of as I read through the Rambam's fifth principle, was not necessarily that it seems strange that man should be able to talk to G-d, but that I have had to adapt to a different way of thinking now that I have begun to align myself with the Jewish faith. In Christianity, the idea that man has the privilege of going to G-d with absolutely any concern is extremely prevalent; in fact, it is one of the most emphasized facets of the faith.

Christianity stresses the idea that man can go to G-d with absolutely any concern; G-d concerns Himself with our needs and emotions. I grew up with this notion, and I still hang onto this idea that G-d is available to us, no matter what we need. However, I feel that in Judaism, I have been able to modify this idea so that I am more aware of G-d's holiness. Christianity, while it emphasizes the availability of G-d, does not emphasize the holiness of our G-d. It isn't that Christians don't believe that Hashem is holy--it's more that Jews recognize the very holiness of G-d's name. I love this about Judaism. Even the very name of G-d is considered too holy to say, except during prayer. The way that we approach G-d shows respect, and this is something different than I had experienced in the faith of my upbringing.

Should we have the right to approach G-d? I cannot answer this question. However, I do approach G-d: it doesn't matter who or what or where I am---I can approach the G-d that created me, that cares about me, that has my future in his palm. I love, though, the fact that I can bow before Hashem in the midst of all his glory...and tell him how much I love him.