My Bible reading today concluded Esther and 1 Corinthians. The theme that struck me was love and fatherhood.
‘ And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. ‘
-1 Corinthians 13:2
Most of the good men in my life are good fathers. They love their kids and make it a priority to be real men because they know they are being watched by the future generations.
Ester was a brave, pious woman of faith. When she was told to act in Esther 4:14, she asked for prayers and fasting while she did the same before launching off on her God-given mission.
‘For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” ‘
-Esther 4:14
How did Esther know what to do? She did the right things; she was not greedy or consumed with power. She was humble, loving and obedient. The answer is easy, because she was obedient to God. But let us examine her influences – Mordecai. He was God-loving and loyal. He raised her. He taught her well. While she is the protagonist and a glowing example for women all around the world. We cannot undermine the father-figure in her life, who might have played a key role.
My earthly father was a gift from God. He was encouraging, loving, patient, present. He taught me many things I know. I owe my self-confidence and strength to his constant encouragement. Parenthood was a joy to him, and I reaped a loving childhood out of it.
As I said, I know some real men who take parenthood seriously. They are present, guide, teach and share. They have a protective instinct that transcends day-to-day safety (mothers can worry about that). They are the lions when called to be and lambs when needed, meek and loving.
Everybody does not share the good fortune of having such a father. But I think in those cases God sends a Mordecai into our lives. Look around and see that there are people who are willing to mentor and provide their support and love. May you bask in the love of a parent figure today. At least trust that your Father Almighty is waiting with his arms wide open. I imagine it is something like this.
‘And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him.’
-Luke 15:20
Dear Father Almighty,
You are a perfect Father to all your children. You are pure, good and loving to us, even when I am not paying attention to You. I am so blessed to have You. Please reveal to me your tender-mercies that keep me going. May I bring You glory. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.