For as heralded as David is, a man after God’s own heart, he was far from perfect. We all know the story of David and Bathsheba, but the scandal doesn’t stop there. Chapters 13-18 of 2 Samuel read more like a dime store novel in some regards. Incest, rape, betrayal, murder plots, and conniving. It’s all there. But unlike a dime store novel, there are some real lessons to be taken away, as well as an understanding of God’s sovereignty and justice, as well as his love and grace.
The Fam Chat sermon series has focused on just that…family. And all the drama that comes with it. I have taken an interest in genealogy. An interest I got from my Uncle John. He was a professional archivist, and he took that skill and interest and applied it to our family history. He has dates and names that go back to my ancestors coming over on the Mayflower. What’s really cool is I have memorabilia from many greats-grandfathers to include a mess kit from my great grandfather Van Mater’s mess kit from the American Revolutionary War, as well as a family Bible from the same era. I also have items from the Civil War and World War II. I think about the generations of men that line up in my family history, up to my own father. A man who had the greatest influence in my life. I am blessed to look back at my father with respect, admiration, and love. But I also understand that there are many who cannot look at their fathers with the same regard. David, for as he was loved by God, was not always the shining example of fatherhood. But, we also have to be careful not to judge too harshly, for in our own fallen state, we are just as much a sinner. But through Christ, we are washed by his blood, and when we confess our sins and accept him as Savior we are forever changed and forever forgiven.
Not all should follow in their father’s footsteps. In our humanity, we will fail. There is but one perfect Father. His love is limitless as is his grace, for those that call him Lord. He is Abba Father…”Daddy.” It is that personal and intimate. We all have an earthly father; some good, worthy to emulate, and others that are not. But God is the perfect father. Men, strive to be worthy of your children’s love and respect. Set the example. And the best way to do that is to live a life that honors God and proclaims Christ. That is the legacy that truly matters.
The Fam Chat sermon series has focused on just that…family. And all the drama that comes with it. I have taken an interest in genealogy. An interest I got from my Uncle John. He was a professional archivist, and he took that skill and interest and applied it to our family history. He has dates and names that go back to my ancestors coming over on the Mayflower. What’s really cool is I have memorabilia from many greats-grandfathers to include a mess kit from my great grandfather Van Mater’s mess kit from the American Revolutionary War, as well as a family Bible from the same era. I also have items from the Civil War and World War II. I think about the generations of men that line up in my family history, up to my own father. A man who had the greatest influence in my life. I am blessed to look back at my father with respect, admiration, and love. But I also understand that there are many who cannot look at their fathers with the same regard. David, for as he was loved by God, was not always the shining example of fatherhood. But, we also have to be careful not to judge too harshly, for in our own fallen state, we are just as much a sinner. But through Christ, we are washed by his blood, and when we confess our sins and accept him as Savior we are forever changed and forever forgiven.
Not all should follow in their father’s footsteps. In our humanity, we will fail. There is but one perfect Father. His love is limitless as is his grace, for those that call him Lord. He is Abba Father…”Daddy.” It is that personal and intimate. We all have an earthly father; some good, worthy to emulate, and others that are not. But God is the perfect father. Men, strive to be worthy of your children’s love and respect. Set the example. And the best way to do that is to live a life that honors God and proclaims Christ. That is the legacy that truly matters.