How to Parent
As I travel on down the path of life, it is becoming more and more apparent that the most important job in the world is that of being a parent. Those of you who don’t have children will probably shake your heads at that one. The first time I heard someone say that their children made the whole deal worthwhile, I was absolutely amazed. What in the world were they thinking?
Some of you who do have children are so beleagured that you wonder why you ever had them. I didn’t say that it is an easy job–only that it is the most important. And the more I realize how crucial the position of being a parent really is, the more I feel my own inadequacy for the role. I can’t always make the right choices for my own life. The truth is that I fail daily. How can I direct the future of these precious children? Tough one, isn’t it?
As I ponder that thought this morning, one thought seems most pertinent: Isn’t it perfect that the most important being in the universe–the Creator–is referred to in scripture as “Father”? I mean think about it. There is no higher office than the one who owns it all, made it all, is in control of it all. Wouldn’t you think that God would want to be called “Your Holiness” or “CEO Extreme”?
But that’s not the case, is it? Scripture even goes as far as to refer to God as “Abba” (e.g. Romans 8:15). Abba is akin to our word, Daddy. It is a term of very close endearment. What an incredible thought. Father God, Creator of All, has given life to me and draws me to Himself like a daddy draws his boy–like I drew my own boy this morning and kissed him as he slept. I love him with all of my heart–the same way that the Father loves me…and you.
How can I parent then? Why not take a few hints from the supreme Parent? How about if I study how God deals with me and look closely at Scripture to see what recommendations He has given me for accomplishing this huge job? And what’s the first thing I see? God is Love (1 John 4:8, NKJV).
Our family started about a year ago to work on the practice (not theory, but practice) of being loving and kind to one another. If that is an easy, no-brainer in your family, then I am glad for you–God is with you mightily. For us, though, loving and kind is often difficult. We often get sideways and snappy. We speak with more than a hint of anger. We gripe, badger, and belittle. I hate to say that, but it’s true. That’s why have been stuck on that one principle for so long-we haven’t got it down to well yet.
I do believe that this is the beginning of good parenting, though, is loving kindness. Sometimes it’s easy–every time the baby laughs or smiles, my heart melts–but much of the time I am so caught up in my own concerns that I am perturbed by an interruption to my concentration on me.
God help me to realize the importance of being a daddy. God help me to point them towards You…towards Love. God help me learn simple loving kindness.
