A Father Like No Other: He Loves His Children

The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand.

John 3:35 ESV

I still remember when Ste was about 2 weeks old, and his dad was eager to show him off to the pharmacology lab where he was a graduate research student.  He wanted to share his joy and excitement over his infant son with faculty and students. I dressed him in a soft green Onesie. My heart burst with love as they left. Proud, proud Daddy. 

These two often rocked together in the nursery and looked at airplane picture books. Building blocks was a favorite pastime for both through Ste’s childhood, usually done in a bonding silence.

As Ste grew older and began to manifest symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and attention deficit disorder (ADD), his father empathized, for he, too, was afflicted by these conditions.  He understood and exhibited patient encouragement. 

A father’s love wouldn’t be complete without discipline. While painting our living room when Ste was a toddler, he was curious about the exposed electrical outlets. Dad’s stern warnings helped keep his probing fingers out of harm’s way.  

Though his loving presence was cut short by his untimely passing, Ste’s dad provided for him and his sister in death. Life insurance provided for his children’s college educations.

In the same way, our heavenly Father delights in his children, trains, and nurtures them. His love is perfect. He understands our frailties. His love toward his often-wayward children is long suffering. His love perfects his purposes in us. He wants each of us for his own. His watchful eye is on us. He is the Rock that holds. 

Have you experienced the lovingkindness of this eternal One? He longs to pour out his love and tender mercies on you, his beloved child. It’s who he is. Come to him, his arms are always open to receive you.

See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are… (1 John 3:1 ESV).

Karen Sims