Presence

Our role as parents will change significantly over the years, but we never leave the stage. Diaper duty makes way for carpool turns and later for high school party supervision. Initially, we enjoy the spotlight and even play a major part in our children’s lives, but later on we play less central roles, and eventually we may even become part of the props. Nevertheless, we remain written into our children’s life scripts forever. We emulate God’s parenting presence.

The Bible shows us a hands-on God. He literally gets His hands dirty when He makes His first son and puts His own breath in him (Genesis 2:7). He provides Eden and Eve—a delightful environment and means to fulfill every need. He forges an intimate relationship by being close and speaking to His children. He makes rules, like any good parent, and He announces and enforces consequences for sin (Genesis 3). Throughout it all, He gives great grace. He equips His children to live as wonderful beings and to make Him known in the world.

There is no other model for parents to follow.

Ask yourself: 

Am I an affectionate and hands-on parent, willing to engage and show grace when my kids disappoint me as much as when they please me?