How Much More: A Father's Love (Luke 11:11-13)

11 What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; 12 or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" (Luke 11:11-13)

Years ago, when my son was about four, I made delicious fruit shakes to be had with dinner. While my back was turned, he climbed onto the table and started slurping his drink. When I told him, “No, that’s for dinner,” he replied, “I’m just testing it.” I asked, “For what?” He

answered, “Poison!” Then he laughed hysterically and quickly went back to chugging his shake. His answer was so hilarious that I couldn’t stop laughing. Then I realized—he had sneakily gotten away with doing something he wasn’t supposed to: drinking his shake and distracting me with humour!

Later, I wondered, why did we both laugh? Then it hit me—we both understood, deep down, what Jesus said here. My son never believed for a moment that there was poison in that cup because he knew I was a good dad who loved him. That’s why his joke was so funny. And if he knows that DEEP down about me —a human, sinful father—how much more should we know about God?

Father, help me remember in times of desperation and despair that You are a good Father who sent Your Son to die on the cross for our sins. Help me trust you in your goodness as I call on your Name. Help me believe that whether I receive what is pleasurable or painful, it all comes from the hand of my good Father.

Written by: Samuel Chua