Heavenly Daddy

As part of my time here at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, I am part of a team planting a house church in a lower-income area here in Redding. Last night, we met for the third time. The first two weeks, we had about 8 adults and 15 children, aged 8 and under. We had a few less people last night, but we had several new faces from the community. I gave a brief message, we saw someone healed of back pain, and had 2 salvations (or re-dedications). It was really an exciting time together. However, the most profound ministry for me personally was not as obvious:

Jessica is a single mother of 5 girls. Her father was never in her life. None of her girls have a father in their lives, either. There are several men involved, and at least 2 of them are in jail. It is so sad when men abandon their families. I hesitate to even refer to them as fathers, because it seems to undermine the very meaning of the word.

Jessica has a 7-month old daughter who is absolutely beautiful. I held her during the meal and during our worship time. She pretty quickly fell asleep on my shoulder, where she rested for a good 15-20 minutes. Knowing that she does not have a dad in her life, I counted it a joy to be able to hold this precious daughter. As I held her, I prayed blessing over her and released a father’s blessing over her life.

I know that receiving blessing from one generation to the next is a big deal. I can’t fully explain it, it’s just how God set things up. I don’t know how her life will be different because of my prayer, but I suspect the hand of God to be on her in a new way. As I laid hands on her and imparted the heart of Father God, I know there was a release of His grace on her life that was not there a moment earlier. (Being only 7 months old, she didn't have any unbelief getting in the way!)

I wish I had taken a picture, because the image is such a profound demonstration of our Daddy God’s heart for us. We can be at total peace in His arms. He has fully adopted us in Christ into His loving family. Jesus came to reveal the Father to us. So this Christmas season, know that He’s your Dad. Whatever your earthly father is/was like, Father God is a bajillion times better, and then some.

I pray today that you would know Him in a deeper way as your Heavenly Dad. His love and care for you are unending and unconditional.