Years ago, my father said something to me that was a teaching moment.
A former tenant had owed rent for almost three years. Then his light disconnected by NEPA. When they left, he began to tap light illegally. If NEPA came for an inspection, my father would have to pay the bill.
Knowing this, Dad did what was necessary; he called a professional to come and disconnect the light.
While he stood to the side and watched as the electrician did his job, one of the man’s children came outside. On seeing the two men, she lost it.
"You're very wicked!
Stupid man!” she railed. “You’re doing as if you’re God because you’re the landlord. You want us to live in darkness? Wicked man! Bet here, we’ll have our own house one day. If you like, cut the light.”
Fact to note: my father was older than that girl by at least thirty years.
My first reaction was shock. Then anger. I could’ve easily taken her on. But I looked to my father first, to gauge his reaction.
And you know what? He said nothing. Not one peep. He just stood there while the girl kept mouthing off. When the electrician was done, they left.
I was disturbed. Why did this man keep quiet, I wondered. He’d NEVER have permitted such insolence from me or my siblings. Why would he allow that girl speak to him in that manner?
Days passed before I went to my father.
“Daddy, why didn’t you answer her when she insulted you?”
He was quiet for some moments and then he said,
“Because she wasn’t the one talking. Her father was speaking to me through her. There’s a boldness with which a child will speak and you’ll know that one of the parents is not far away.
They were in that house; they heard what she said, yet they did nothing. My response wasn’t meant for her. That’s why I kept quiet.”
From his words, I understood why Christ rebuked Satan even though Peter was the one who spoke.
I understood why the scriptures say that our battles are not against flesh and blood.
This is why when confronted, I carefully consider all sides. I'd rather seek peace and pursue it. Like the Bible instructs, I want to be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger.
Years after my earthly father showed me the way, the Lord reiterated this truth to me in a similar circumstance. And I have kept on that path since.
Because I am the daughter of my Fathers.
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