Following in Father’s Footsteps – June 20, 1999
Who can measure the extent of a father’s love or place a value on the power of his example? The same loving father who quiets a five-year-old’s nighttime fears can speak across generations in the memories of his adult children, who are now raising five-year-olds of their own. In so many ways, for better or worse, we follow in our father’s footsteps.
As parents, how humbling it is to see our children look up from trying to walk in our oversized shoes and say, “I’m trying to be like you, Daddy.” Watching a toddler repeat our words or mimic our actions provides an unblinking mirror for the soul. And seeing one’s own image reflected in faces and photographs of children and grandchildren is to glimpse eternity. Parents often resolve to more fully merit the simple trust that shines in their children’s eyes.
In raising our own children and nurturing those of others, we have a perfect example. How significant and inspiring—of all the titles of rank or power He might have chosen, God invites us to call Him Father.
By God’s divine plan, the ongoing process of learning to be parents causes us to grow, sacrifice, and struggle. While the shoes of perfect parenthood are still far too large for any of us, what marvelous lessons we learn by trying them on.
After experiencing some of parenthood’s joys and sorrows for ourselves, we more easily understand the depth of God’s unconditional love for us. In the midst of our trials, tears, and tragedies, we may hear the whisper-soft assurance of His love in words similar to those we speak to our own children: “I’m here.” “I know.” “Everything will be all right.”
Like any other loving father, God watches over and cares for His children. He knows us each by name and delights in our best efforts.
As we move forward with faith in God and His perfect example, we will discover that our greatest joys come as we follow in our Father’s footsteps.
Program #3644