Fourteen years ago today I became a dad. What an emotional day that was, and what an incredible feeling to witness the miracle of birth. I've since witnessed 3 more miracles, each one unique and amazing. What an example of God's words that say that a man and a woman will come together to become one flesh. I know that children are not exactly what we are instructed is being conveyed in the Bible, but if you really think about it, that is exactly what happens. For a life cannot happen without a part of me and a part of my wife combining and producing a new life, from the moment of conception.
I read in my morning devotion the story in the first chapter of Matthew of the angel visiting Joseph to let him know not to be afraid of taking Mary home as his wife. Joseph's plans were to quietly divorce Mary so as not to expose her to public disgrace. Joseph was told, as Mary had been, that the conception was immaculate and was told what to name the child. This was important, because the name, Jesus, is the Greek form of Joshua which means the Lord saves. I think this must have given Joseph comfort, but I also believe he had to have a feeling of being overwhelmed.
Who among those of us with children don't feel overwhelmed with the responsibility of caring and raising a child? Can you even imagine if your child was the Son of God? It is obvious to me why God chose Mary and Joseph. He must have known how faithful they would be to His word. Because we are told in the Book of Revelation how Jesus will return we know that this could never happen today. But just think of how it would play out if you or I were called for this incredible responsibility.
My wife and I joked when we started having kids, asking where the instruction manual was. While it is true there is no instruction manual for the physical care of a child (although there are books that try but don't really come close to how it really plays out), there is and instruction manual for the spiritual care of our children. It is the Bible and I encourage you to read what it has to say. If it seems like a foreign language, or you need help with where to look for the "instructions" then talk with your pastor, priest, or minister and ask for help. They can give you guidance and also point you in the direction of some incredible Bible studies that will help. I know my wife and I did several couples Bible studies. These were terrific and I am sorry that we are not doing them any more. They help relate what the Bible says to what you are experiencing in your life. They also do one very important thing. They show you that you are not alone in this journey, your experiences with your children, your spouse, are not unique. It helps to know this and to understand that we are human and will make mistakes, but if we raise our children according to God's word it will last a lifetime. As yesterday's post mentioned, plant the foundation for which they will be able to fall back on. That is the best we can do as parents.
God Bless your Thursday.
Happy Birthday Zach! I love you and I am proud to be your dad.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment