Bettering Backstories

By Pastor Kevin Van Wyk
Our family recently watched the movie “I Can Only Imagine” which was based on the back story of the song by the same name. It was just as inspiring as the song. 

The song, while nearly 20 years old, is the best-selling Christian song of all time. Why? Well, it beautifully radiates the experience of being in heaven with Jesus. In a previous church, we had an older couple come to Christ after a member introduced them to me because the husband found out he was dying of cancer. He lived for a few months before going to be with Jesus in heaven. This song became the rally cry of hope for the entire family. 

For me, hearing the backstory of this song made it even more powerful, but I won’t spoil the movie for you. My only hope today is that you pause a bit more this Christmas season and consider the backstory of those you encounter.

Did you know Esther was a “young woman Mordecai had adopted, the daughter of his uncle Abihail.“ (Esther 2:15) What happened to Abihail and his wife? What kind of pain and loss had Esther experienced? What was the relationship really like with her cousin/adoptive dad? What would have happened to Esther and the Jews if Mordecai had not adopted her? 

Esther’s story could have been a tragedy filled with pain, rejection, and abuse, but it is one of hope and restoration. 

As we delve into the Christmas story this year, I hope to see God open your heart and mind and use you to change the backstory of children. While suffering can lead to great stories of redemption, there is always a Mordecai behind the scene. This Christmas, you’ll hear from some “Mordecais” and be inspired to listen for God’s call on your life to lift others up. 

Prayer: Lord, soften my heart to hear from you. Open my eyes to see the needs in this world and to respond with faith and courage. 
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31-Day Devotional:  Fostering Hope
Be prepared to put pure religion into action as you experience this devotional plan that shares real stories from the world of a doctor working in the trenches of the foster care system. (https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/138-fostering-hope)