Father and Son
by Chelsea Pietsch
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The Father loves the Son and shows him all he does (John 5:20a).
Read John 5:19–29
How important fathers are in the lives of their children! It is through our fathers that we first experience the love and approval of our Heavenly Father. A father’s love and approval sets us up for life and shows us God himself is good and trustworthy.
On a more practical level, children learn how to behave in the world based on the attitudes and behaviours of their mothers and fathers. I often marvel at the way children mirror their parents, both for good or ill.
My boys love to shadow their dad and do what he does – whether it be in the garden, at church or at home. When their dad is not around, I watch my older son teach his brother the games his dad has taught him. He has learned to entertain young children thanks to the example of his dad.
In this passage, we learn that Jesus, too, mimics the work of his Father. Their relationship is one of love, approval and mutual mission. Our Heavenly Father shows Jesus what he is doing, and Christ does the same. They work together for our good.
God the Father speaks to us through his Son, Jesus, who is the icon – or image – of the invisible Father (Colossians 1:15). When we believe what Jesus says, we also place our trust in the Father. This is not only pleasing to our Father in Heaven, but it is the path to eternal life. Those who have ears to hear, let them hear.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that you are our Father who works with your Son, Jesus, for our good. Help us believe in Jesus so that we might pass from death to life. Amen.
Chelsea Pietsch is a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Adelaide. She is married with two children and a consultant to Lutherans for Life (www.lutheransforlife.lca.org.au).
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