Like Father, Like Son

I come from a pretty large family on both sides. Ever since I can remember, relatives were always reminding me of how much I looked like, and behaved like my dad. Even today I’m told that I look more and more like him. I have his sense of humor, his compassion, his views…etc.

My dad was my hero and I’ve always wanted to be just like him. I’ve patterned many aspects of my life after him. My dad enlisted in the Army at 16 years old, I enlisted in the Marines at 19; dad boxed in the military, I began boxing 2 years prior to my enlistment.

Dad answered his call to preach the gospel, and finally I answered my call. However I must confess that when I remember my dad, I’m reminded that I haven’t completely measured up to his image. I’ve had speed-bumps, self-inflicted wounds, and have often gotten off course during my journey to follow in his footsteps. Sometimes I beat myself up when I fail in the pursuit of dad’s life.

But somehow I know deep within that dad would be proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish despite my short-comings.

Indecently, the same holds true in comparison to my life as a follower of Christ. When I think of the sacrifice that he made for me inspite of myself; how Christ willingly left his throne in glory to die not only for my sins past, present, and future; but for those of the entire world, I’m driven to emulate his life…

“When I think on the goodness of Jesus, and all that he’s done for me; my soul cries out hallelujah, I thank God for saving me…”

However, looking at the life of Christ is a constant reminder that I do not measure up, I am still so very flawed, and often times I’m in the company of people who are equally as flawed as I am.

(Ref. Isaiah 6:5, Romans 3:9-11 & 23, 5:12)

Yet he still loves me, and just like my earthly father; Christ gives me his undivided attention, grants me access to his heart, protects and makes provision for me despite the many times I fail or get off track.

The more I read his word, the longer I stay in his presence, the more I communicate with him, I’m driven to become more and more like him. (Ref. Romans 6:4, Ephesians 1:17, Philippians 3:10, 1^st Corinthians 2:16)

I want to love like him, be as compassionate as him, acquire his humility and meekness; and I want to serve him by becoming a better servant to others.

Jesus said that we are the light of the world, and in being so, our lives should be as such that when the world looks at us, they should see and glorify our Father in heaven. (Ref. Matthew 5:14-16)

Everyday I desire to emulate my dad, and everyday I live to emulate Christ. After-all, he is my Father.