Coming up to Father's Day this Sunday, I am thinking of my dad. I think about him a lot. The most important thing he taught me was this. There is only one way to live: all-out, go-for-broke, risk-taking, pedal-to-the-metal, ferociously joyful and grateful enthusiasm for the Lord Jesus Christ. Halfway Christianity is the most miserable existence of all. Halfway Christians know enough to feel guilty about themselves but haven’t gone far enough to get happy in Christ. Wholehearted Christianity is very happy.
How could my dad get there and stay there? He really, really knew that God loved him and had completely forgiven all his sins at the cross of Jesus. I saw dad in repentance. But he did not wring his hands and wonder what God thought of him. He believed the good news, his spirit soared and he could never do too much for his Savior.
I am thankful for what my dad taught me. It's the most valuable thing anyone has ever given me. And I want everyone to have this treasure.
Posts
3 comments:
Ray this is a wonderful and indeed beautiful collection of thoughts. My Dad was a "good" man in many ways but as far as I can remember (he died when I was 16) he never mentioned God to me once. That makes my heart sad. But God is good "all" the time.
You have stirred me to again remind my son of the joy that loving the Lord Jesus brings. And to borrow from John Piper again that our God is a happy God with pure joy flowing within the trinity.
Thank you, George. Your son is being deeply influenced by your godly words and example. He will have wonderful things to say about you in future years.
Ray,
Thinking of you this Father's Day. Your amazing father . . . his remarkable son . . . the bottomless goodness of the Father in never giving up on fickle children like me.
I know you are certainly missing your Dad today, and I pray that you will know both God's comfort and also rich and tangible memories of life with your Godly, fun, admirable Dad.
Grateful for your father's legacy, and your ministry of the Word in my life,
David Guthrie
Post a Comment