Honour Your Father
Author: Suzanne S. Austin-Hill (Florida, US)
My father was known for his ‘I’ll-give-you-the shirt-off-my-back’ generosity. But when I asked him for some money to buy a toy from a classmate, I was surprised when he responded quietly and thoughtfully, ‘No.’ He explained that the toy was a want, not a need.
The next day when my father was out, I opened his desk drawer, stole some money and bought the toy. A few days later, when he discovered that the money was missing, he knew immediately that I was the thief. He told me I had no reason to steal from him. I could depend on his promise to give me everything I needed. He expressed a deep disappointment in me, yet ended his stern reprimand by saying, ‘But I still love you.’
When I reflect on how my father handled my disobedience, it became clear to me that he exemplified the kind of love that God, my heavenly Father, has for me even when I fall short.
God said, ‘Honour your father’ (Exodus 20:12). Today and every day I honour my father for his loving discipline, and I give thanks for the unconditional love that God shows to us.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the example of loving earthly parents and for your unconditional love for all of your children. Amen
