The Perfect Parent

There's an advertising slogan being used in the foster/adoption that says, "You don't have to be perfect, to be a perfect parent". While that's true and it's a cool slogan, it's hard to remember that such a state is okay.

My parents aren't perfect. Neither are (or were) yours. Nor am I one, for certain.

Yet as I reflected yesterday on the character of God, it amazes me how so many are convinced and moved to believe that a relationship with God through the person of Christ, is not for them.

He calls us his children; he calls us to a child-like faith to trust in Him, yet He treats us with the utmost respect.

He is not a God of brute force in His desire to commune with us...
... He stands at the door and knocks at the heart of humanity. He is not busting it down. He waits patiently, with the occasional reminder that He is as close as the mention of His name.

He has nothing but love and compassion, for His Creation...
... for I formed you in your mother's womb, Scripture tells us.

He is not a vindictive or revengeful God, that He responds in kind with the same attitude He is treated...
... for He knows the thoughts He has for you, plans for a hope and a future.

As I stated recently, it's a great tragedy that Gandhi allowed the flaws and imperfections of Christians to stand in the way of a personal relationship with God. Likewise, many look at the world today and allow people and circumstance to stand in the way and respond with a "what's up with that" and "why would I want anything to do with a God like that?"

Yet, unless there is a relationship that frames our perspective, then things never really quite make sense when looking at it from the outside. Yet, like the Father of the prodigal son, nothing is standing in the way from being able to run to God our Father, with a broken-hearted response. A broken and contrite heart, the Bible states.

Why would we allow our own flaws and imperfections to stand in the way of a relationship with Almighty God; the only perfect Parent?

So, pray this #missionsFriday, that today would be a celebration within the kingdom of God; that many prodigals would return to the arms of the Father. May many answer the knock of God that patiently awaits on the other side of their hearts' door. Pray the eye-scales would fall as the revelation of God is made known; His character, His presence. May the lives of the believer reflect that transforming power of Christ at work in our hearts and minds; that God does not look at our problems, attitudes and flaws and say, I want nothing to do with you. Pray the love and truth of God would arise and stand above the noise... that a relationship with God is beyond anything we can compare on earth; and the reward far outweighs our perceived risk.

Sinners, saved by grace.
Once lost, but not found.
Loved from the foundation of  the Earth
Loved for all eternity.
By the only perfect Parent.
May lives be made whole
In the only relationship that transcends time and space.
For the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

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