Parenthood Teaches the Father-heart of God

Being a daddy has given me new insights into "the Father-heart of God" - the love of God as Father to us, His children. When Jesus introduced God as our Father, the religious leaders found it scandalous. Unfortunately, these days, many of us have lost the wonder of such an intimate appellation. This was certainly true for me, until my son Ben was born.

Benjamin is God's gift to my wife and me. He is a real delight, and he often teaches me about God. When he was three years old, Ben once volunteered to help replace the batteries in my alarm clock. He fumbled with the screwdriver, dropped the clock, and inserted the batteries the wrong way around. His enthusiasm turned into tears when the clock crashed onto the floor. What should have taken me only a few minutes to do took much longer. I had to undo his mistakes and spend time soothing the poor boy - assuring him that no damage was done (the clock survived) and that his assistance, though futile, was nevertheless appreciated.

How often have I been guilty of the same? Of offering God my feeble help, only to make things worse? Yet, the Almighty, who could have accomplished the task far more elegantly, and efficiently, on His own, would kindly allow me to participate.

Oh, how gracious is the Father-heart of God!

Daily chores with Ben often startle me with spiritual truths. Like when I have to help him brush his teeth, something he finds amusing. Ben relishes the struggle every time we brush. He would move his head too high or too low, or else use his tongue to resist the toothbrush, or spit too soon, or spit outside the sink, or yelp if I accidentally jabbed into his gums. It is a real struggle. And it is the same struggle until he co-operates.

As I scold Ben, I can hear God reminding me of my own tug-of-war with Him. Like Jacob wrestling with the Stranger, how long will it be before I learn to co-operate with the One who cleans me each day of the filth in my life?

 Oh, how patient is the Father-heart of God!

Ben just drew me a picture (right). It is no Monet, but I will keep it. My gifts to God must look likewise: crude, but treasured.

Oh, how loving is the Father-heart of God!