I grew up with a father that expected quite a bit from his children.  He was stern, insisted on our going to church every Sunday, but led a different life apart from church.  He liked to drink – I believe to numb some of his insecurities.  He verbally abused our mother as well as my sister and I.  He rarely complimented or praised us, but often found things to complain about.

It became difficult for me to understand the true, forgiving love of a father.  It took me many years to realize that I have a Father that loves me in spite of my shortcomings.  Even though I was being held tightly by the Holy Spirit during my growing up years, I was being preached to each Sunday by a legalistic preacher who spent most of his sermons expounding on the wrath of God, rather than His loving nature.  I thought for sure I was doomed to hell.

Even though I grew up in Christian schools and was exposed to God’s Word on a daily basis, I didn’t understand God’s fatherly nature.  I considered Him a judge with no mercy.  Many years passed before that message became clear to me. Eventually I began to see that I have been adopted by God as His very own child.  He loves me with a love that human standards can’t imagine.  His love is perfect – the kind that human dads are often incapable of dispensing.

When I discovered the great price God paid to have me be His very own child, the message became even clearer.  Can you imagine someone giving up their life to give you life?  I’m not talking about giving you a kidney or a blood transfusion here.  I’m talking about sacrifice beyond our comprehension.

When we celebrate Father’s Day this year, let’s not forget the Father of all Creation – the One who loves us so much that He laid down His life for our salvation.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO MY HEAVENLY FATHER!