MARCH 10, Esther 2: 10-11

We can choose our friends - those we want to keep close to us, and others we prefer to keep at a distance. - but can we choose our family? We can’t choose our parents, and neither can they choose us. God gave each of us parents and siblings by His divine appointment. He put us in our family for a special purpose. A closely-knit family is one where members love and care for one another. The children love and honour their parents by obeying and respecting their parents’ authority. The parents love their children with a constant care and only desire their best interests. Their children are always on their mind.

We see this closeness and love of family between Mordecai and Esther. They only had each other. Mordecai was like a father to Esther, and Esther respected and trusted all his decisions. When Esther was brought to the king’s house, Mordecai instructed her not to reveal her Jewish background. No reason was given, but Esther fully trusted him, and obeyed. She knew that he would not ask anything that was not in her best interests. Every day that Esther was away from Mordecai, did not mean that he forgot about her. Mordecai was always concerned and anxious over her, like every loving parent would be. He went to the king’s house every day to find out how Esther was doing, and to find out the latest updates of her well-being. Mordecai and Esther cherished each other dearly as family.

How much do you cherish your family and thank God for them? Your family will never be perfect; your parents may get angry with you for wrong reasons; your sibling may be selfish. But you too are never perfect. So let’s learn to appreciate them despite their failings.

Reflection: What are some practical ways that you can show love and care to your parents and siblings?

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Thought: My family is God’s gift to me.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You for the family that You have given to me. Grant me a spirit of humility and obedience to love and serve them in practical ways. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.