HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER

~ RENT A FAMILY ~

By Synthia Esther

In Charles Colson’s book, “Dangerous Grace," the story is told of an ideal family. A little boy in a chirpy voice greeting an elderly woman who returned his greeting with a hug. The boy states, ”My name is Yoshi, I’m five years old, and I’m your grandson.” Yoshi’s young parents stand by his side, with his mother holding a baby in her arms. Such sweet sentiments aren't they? Yet the facts about this family and many others, are troubling.

RENT A FAMILY

What seemed to be a family reunion was actually a service offered by a handful of enterprising companies in Japan called “Rent-A-Family”. According to Colson, news reports in Japan state such companies are doing a brisk business, where elderly couples are so lonely they resort to renting a family. Japanese sociologists claim the demand for rent- a- family actors and actresses is a result of a culture addicted to work. Since World War 11 Japan has placed productivity at an all time high.

Americans addicted to work are not far behind in their pursuit of global prosperity and success. Loneliness is a sad side effect of work-a-holics who fail to see a life filled with purpose, in the simple pleasures of "now, " being in the moment, and cherishing the love only that moment can provide. For in the end of our life, we won't remember the business deal that looms in tomorrows grasp, or our profit margins and stock options. Instead, we will regret the loss of cherished family moments, the love of a pet, the smell of fresh rain, natures peace, a child's small hand in ours, a kiss on the check, the passion of our lover's care. Which are alll brought together in the common unity and joy of God's love, the true supplier of life's joy, peace, and happiness. Those of us who have lost a close loved one, know all to well how fast life can pass us by.

I am reminded of the song “Cats In The Cradle” by Harry Chaplin, that tells of a father too busy to give of his time and attention to his young son. When the son grows up, he is too busy to take time to visit his elderly father. The lyrics read:

I’ve long since retired and my son’s moved away. I called him up just the other day. I said, “I’d like to see you if you don’t mind.” He said, “I’d love to, dad, if I could find the time. You see, my new job’s a hassel, and the kid’s got the flue, but it’s sure nice talking to you , dad. It’s been sure nice talking to you.” And as I hung up the phone, it occurred to me, he’d grown up just like me. My boy was just like me. – Harry Chaplin.

HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER

When I searched for the lyric’s on the Internet to quote this song, I found them posted by a man who wrote as a sad tribute, “My dad just died today.” My heart sank and my mind raced thinking how much my earthly father and mother mean to me. I am blessed to have a father and mother who love me and Jesus Christ more than life itself. In the USA, Fathers Day is celebrated on the 3rd Sunday of June since being made a national holiday in 1966. In Australia and New Zealand, fathers are honored the first Sunday in September. May the words I write prompt all who read them to reach out, love, and honor their father and mother, not only on their special day, but all year long. May we also cherish our family, and extended family, in a spirit of God’s love, forgiveness, and affection. For we may be the only “light” of God’s grace, mercy, and love, that they see and ever come to know.

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you” - Exodus 20:12.

* Synthia Esther is President and Founder of "Synthia Esther Ministries" - www.synthiaesther.com and "Concerned Single Americans" - www.concernedsingleamericans.com