“And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah, that is Esther, his uncle's daughter, for she had neither father nor mother. The young woman was lovely and beautiful. When her father and mother died, Mordecai took her as his own daughter.” Esther 2:7 (NKJV)
Several weeks ago I attended a celebration dinner for one of my dearest friends who recently earned her doctorate in microbiology. It was indeed a joyous occasion. Throughout our friendship I've heard great things about her family, and it was an honor to meet those who have played a major role in helping her become the amazing woman I've come to know and love. Specifically, I was excited to meet her beloved grandfather, Deda.
I recently found out that her bond with Deda is particularly special; because her relationship with her biological father was strained, early on in her childhood Deda stepped in and acted as her father.
During the reception tears welled in my eyes as I listened to Deda talk about his love for my friend, how he had prayed for her, protected her, and poured into her life. He said that even as a small child, he knew she was destined for greatness. Although he's not her biological father, the love and guidance he has shown her undoubtedly impacted her life in the absence of her biological father.
As I listened, God reminded me of the story of Esther. I wondered what would have become of her had Mordecai not taken Esther in as his own daughter, prayed for her, protected her, and poured into her life. The fact is, circumstances outside of our control may prevent us from having a relationship with our biological fathers. But God, our heavenly and eternal Father, understands the importance of and our need for an earthly father figure in our lives. He is faithful to supply us with someone who will father us naturally in our time of need.
Thank God He doesn't leave us un-fathered.
Lord, thank You for being our heavenly Father and for acknowledging our need for an earthly father. Thank You for the brothers, uncles, and grandfathers that have stepped in to fill that need in our lives. Amen.
Take Action
Take some time today to thank God for the father figures in your life. Then, write a note or talk to one of these men who have impacted your life.