“I am Joseph. Is my father still alive?” (Genesis 45.3)
When Joseph makes himself known to his brothers, his first question concerns his father, not checking on the sheep, nor the weather in Canaan, but his family, starting with Dad. Earlier he had been “deeply moved” at seeing his younger brother Benjamin (45.30).
There are a series on incidents in the gospels when Christ meets those who sole concern is the well-being of one who is both near and dear. I made the bold claim recently that prayers for close family are given priority in Heaven! My conclusion is this: When you read the gospels, the vast majority of prayer requests brought to Christ are for close family. I suggest this is no accident, and reflects the Father’s heart for family.
Some examples:
- Jairus – ‘my little daughter’ (Mark 5.23)
- Canaanite (Syro-Phoenician) woman – ‘my daughter’ (Matt 15.21)
- After the transfiguration, when Jesus meets a father, who cries out – ‘Lord, have mercy on my son” (Matt 17.15)
- The mother of Zebedee’s sons – ‘these two sons of mine’ (Matt 20.21)
The scriptures provide a ‘way of life.’ Walk in it.