an unreceived gift

I had a revelation tonight. It might be considered nothing major, but the more I think about it, the more life-changing I think it can be.

A couple months ago, I purchased a membership at the local senior adult center for my parents. Not a major expense, but one that they wouldn't pay for. My motives were purely for them — I wanted them to get out of the house and make friends and have fun. Dad decided from the beginning that he would not go. No explanation, simply that he's not going. Mother went without him to several events, and has loved it. I'm not sure, but I think possibly that has strengthened Dad's resolve to not go. (Go figure)

For a time, Dad said that if Mom would go with him, walking on the Greenbelt trail where he walks most days, that he would then go to the center. Mind you, Mother has arthritis in her feet, knees, hips, arms, shoulders, just everywhere. Walking — exercise of any kind hurts — would probably be good for her, but hurts anyway.    

Jack and I picked my parents up at the airport tonight, after their trip to Florida to visit my aunt and uncle. On the trip home, I made mention of the senior center and Dad ignored me. I then said that it was no problem, that I would pay for Mom to have her membership, but not Dad's.

After leaving their house, Jack and I were talking and I said that I'd already made up my mind that next year I will pay for Dad's membership as well, even if he's not used it. That even if he never used it, I would pay for it and when he asked me why I do, I would tell him that I do it because I love him enough to give him that gift, even if he never accepts it and enjoys it. THAT'S IT. The revelation. Did you see it?

That's salvation. That's what God does for us. He's purchased freedom and abundant life for every single one of us. The trouble is, so many just don't accept it. For whatever reason, they refuse to take this amazing gift and enjoy it.

Thanks Dad, for helping me see God.

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