Article October 23, 1948 Issue

Signs of the times

Our Father-Mother God

with contributions from J. C. Eastcott, William E. Kroll, Howard H. Bryant, Benjamin J. Steed, Cecil H. Franks

The Rev. J. C. Eastcott in an article in the Spectator Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Tender love is not always recognized as an aspect of Deity. We think of Him as power, we think of Him as righteousness, hence as judge, avenger, and punisher. In the Old Testament we find most frequently the sterner aspects is of Deity...

Only occasionally in the Old Testament do we find references to the other side of God's nature, the qualities of tender solicitude and love. In Isaiah (66:13) we read, "As one whom his mother comforteth forteth, so will I comfort you." Our text reminds us of a great truth that God is both Father and Mother. The traditional view of parents, frequently accepted, is that in fatherhood we find the provider, the authority, the disciplinarian, whereas in motherhood we find tender care, solicitude, and loving affection... He does represent to us power, justice, and judgment, but also He is to us infinite and tender love. "He shall gather the lambs... in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young."

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