FATHERS OF FAITH
The readings for today speak of two great themes: fatherhood and faith. They tell of David, Abraham, and Joseph. Each was a man whom God promised much in his life. Each continues to stand as a father to both Jews and Christians. More importantly for today, each stands as an example of faithfulness amidst uncertainty.
Our lives have all been disrupted at this point to one degree or another. Winters in Boston are the only examples of disruptions that even come close to this, but even then, we knew that Spring would come. Even though Spring is on the horizon, the end of this pandemic is murky. This situation is something different altogether. As I sit and reflect on what is being offered at this time, I cannot help but think about the inherent promise made in being forced to wait.
Over the past few months, my wife and I have been working on teaching our toddler how to wait. It always begins with her asking for something; then telling her that she cannot have what she wants at this moment; a short tantrum ensues; and, finally, when the time is right, she receives what was promised. Our lives today are much like this. We are called to wait. We are learning patience in a new way. Our busy lives have immediately ground to a halt. Yet there is a promised future. Our world will not always be as it is. We have been promised that, if we wait, things will get better.
We do not know how long this will be nor what to expect. The best that we may be able to do is to learn from our fathers and lie in wait, and hope. They were all promised something wonderful. An old couple was promised a child, and a people to call their own. A shepherd boy was to become the father of a nation, and lead them to greatness. A carpenter was asked to raise the Messiah, and help bring about a new hope for the world. So, much like our fathers, we wait in hope. We wait amidst uncertainty. We wait for a healthy, safe future.
In the midst of uncertainty, what does waiting look for me?
How can I take what is unknown and turn it in an opportunity to grow closer to God?
How am I being changed by this experience?
Matt Keppel