Fragrant Offerings: A Father's Pride

Today's time with the Lord reminded me of my dad. There are still days and moments where it takes my breath away in knowing I won't see him until I see the Lord myself. He was such a loving dad. I can still hear his cheesy lines when I would come home from class back in college. "Here comes Miss Placentia!!!" he'd shout as I rolled my eyes at him. Then he'd continue with his lines "You know, sweetheart, you are so beautiful." (more eye rolling)...

Today in the book of Ruth (ch. 4), it talked about the customs of making a transaction in ancient Israel. Boaz was having his all important meeting with the closer kin of Ruth's and with other men from town as witnesses. When the kin turned the property and Ruth down, Boaz stood up to make an announcement. He declared Ruth to be his wife. And he said her name quite humorously...."Ruth the Moabite, widow of Mahlon!" Remember, the title of being a Moabite was not something to be proud of. And yet, Boaz declared her entire name to the group of men. I couldn't help but think he said it with a huge silly grin similar to my dad's smiles when he used to greet me at the door.

This reminds me of the Lord Himself who "knows my name." Recently in Pursuit, we studied John 20. In this chapter Mary had an encounter with the risen Lord Himself. She was so blinded with grief that she didn't realize that her Lord was standing right in front of her until He said her name in that too familiar voice she was longing for. I haven't heard my own dad's voice in about 5 years now, but I know if I heard it, I'd know it was him. Do I know the Lord's voice just as well? Am I familiar to His calling? He says my name unabashedly...boldly....because He doesn't care that I'm a flawed, selfish human. He still smiles and would probably carry my picture in His wallet, if He had one. What a proud Heavenly Father we have! Sometimes it is hard to fathom that kind of deep love from the kindness of a Savior, and the faithfulness of a Lover.

I am amazed at His love for me....for us. It makes me want to pause and worship Him. The song that comes to mind is: This Is Our God (by Hillsong)

Your grace is enough

More than I need

And your word I will believe

I wait for you

Draw near again

And your spirit make me new

And i will fall at your feet

I will fall at your feet

And i will worship you here

Your presence in me

Jesus light the way

By the power of your word