Loved
We had our children close together, at one point we had three under the age of five. Being near in age meant that they grew up together.
As adults, they are fun to be around and we enjoy each other’s company and often share stories of them growing up when we get together.
We talk about birthdays, Christmas, school days and other happy memories. Recently we were reflecting on how we would all be up, showered, breakfasted and out of the door by 8:00am, ready to start school at 8:30am!
Alongside all the fun stuff, we sort to train and prepare them for adult life, which at times including telling them off! They like to remind me of when I used to get quite angry with their behaviour.
In all the ups and downs of parenting, we did try to make sure that they knew we loved them for who they were. That was, and still is, an important value. This is mentioned in the Bible…
“When all the people were being baptised, Jesus was baptised too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.’”
This is an amazing moment. Firstly, all three members of the Trinity are present: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.
Secondly, this took place before Jesus started his ministry/work. This is so important, as God the Father’s declaration and affirmation of His love for Jesus, was not based on anything he had done!
This is great ‘parent training’ from the Bible! I don’t know what your relationship was/is like with your parents, and I don’t know if you are parenting now.
But know this, Father God loves you, and is well pleased with you, just for who you are!
God bless you:)
Gary Bastin
Hope Community Church leader