Over the last couple of weeks, we have looked into the fatherly role of biblical men and have observed a variety of parenting models. The last of these fathers, before we celebrate Father’s Day this weekend, is a man called Jairus (Luke 8:40-56). Jairus was a leader in the synagogue and widely respected; however, on this very sad day, Jairus’ twelve-year-old daughter lay on her bed, dying. Desperate to save his daughter’s life, Jairus knew there was but one answer â€" He had to find Jesus and bring Him to her bedside. He knew without a doubt that Jesus was her Salvation. He loved his girl so much that he was willing to face the ridicule of the other synagogue leaders in His pursuit of the Messiah. In a very public display, Jairus fell at Jesus’ feet and begged Him to go with him.

This desperation observed in Jairus’ pleading with Jesus, on behalf of his daughter, needs to be demonstrated by fathers today. His daughter was dying physically and Jairus needed Christ to intervene. Today our children are faced with an ongoing spiritual war with the one whom Jesus warns, “comes only to steal and kill and destroy.� (John 10:10) We desperately need to fall to our knees and ask Christ to intercede for the hearts of our children. Dads, Moms, Grandparents, it is time we took a stand against the evil one and, like Jairus, plead with the Lord for the physical and spiritual lives of our children. Godly fathers care deeply for their child’s physical health but most especially for their spiritual health. Jairus sought after Jesus, giving his daughter the best example of faith, he could. She saw that her father was not ashamed to bring Jesus into their home and in turn felt her father’s great love for her.

Parents, we've got our work cut out for us; can we rise to the task before us? Our children need us seeking the Lord now more than ever!

Suggested Prayer: Dear God, what a privilege and blessing you have given us as parents! We know that the enemy is out to destroy their innocence, steal their joy, and kill their dreams. But, no circumstance is too difficult for you, so today we pray for our children as they seek to overcome life’s difficulties and battle the enemy’s schemes. I ask that you fill them with Your might and fill me with Your wisdom as I guide them in Your ways. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

1.    Luke 8:41-42 (NIV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.