I got up this morning thinking about my dad. He’s been in heaven now for almost 20 years, 19 years tomorrow, as a matter of fact.
Times with him were special. He worked out of town a lot, so I treasured the days he was home. Dinner around the table, playing a rousing game of 42 (dominoes), times when I got to go along on the hunting trips and sitting beside him on a riverbank or the shore of a lake as we fished.
Special times.
I miss the times we talked. I also remember the tone in his voice when I was about to get a spanking for something I had done wrong. Growing up wasn’t always easy but it was always loving.
Dave asked me last night if I felt I had a happy childhood. I did. His wasn’t.
Regardless of the experiences we have/had with our earthly fathers, the relationship we have with our heavenly Father is one of unconditional love, forgiveness, acceptance and guidance/correction for our well-being.
Our son would follow Dave through the alfalfa fields trying to match his steps stride for stride, he wore his hat like his dad and the same kind of boots. Then when he got older Dave would take him to his surf competitions. Now the two of them enjoy fishing trips and just being together. Father and Son.
Our girls still call Dave daddy. When they write him notes or call on the phone it’s always “Daddy”. He would read to our youngest daughter when I was at work and comb her hair in the mornings if I had to go in early. Our oldest daughter had him chaperone her sweet 16 party and they went ice skating – then there were the times they went horseback riding together.
Times with Dad are special! They make an indelible impact on our lives and just because we may not have our earthly dads with us any more, we most certainly have our Heavenly One who desires to have us spend time with Him.
“Do as God does. After all, you are his dear children. 2 Let love be your guide. Christ loved us and offered his life for us as a sacrifice that pleases God.” Ephesians 5:1-2 CEV
“Since you are now God’s children, he has sent the Spirit of his Son into your hearts. The Spirit cries out, “ Abba, Father.” 7 Now you are not slaves like before. You are God’s children, and you will receive everything he promised his children.” Galatians 4:6-7 ERV
Make a commitment to spend time with your Father this year. He loves spending time with you!
“Jesus understands every weakness of ours, because he was tempted in every way that we are. But he did not sin! 16 So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness, and we will find help.” Hebrews 4:15-16 CEV