Shalom, I received this on Easter from a friend.
There was a father who had many children, each of whom he loved with
all his heart. He gently cared for, taught and protected each child,
generously providing for their every need. The father was particularly proud
of one his children who had grown to be a wonderful and gifted individual.
Unfortunately, that same child also caused the father much sorrow and pain,
for that child rarely spoke to him -- much less visited with him. Often, the
father put his hurt aside and sought the child out. "I love you, my child. I
miss you. Please call me once in awhile -- maybe think of me now and then.
Just so I know that you love me." But it was to no avail.
One day, the child fell asleep and woke up in a magical place -- a land
filled with more beauty and wonders than the child could have ever imagined.
"If this is a dream," the child thought, "I hope I never wake up."
"It is not a dream," a familiar voice said. It was the child's father,
who now stood bathed in a glorious light, before the child.
"Father," the child said, "where are we? What is this amazing place?"
"This is the inheritance of my children who love me."
"Inheritance?!" The child gazed at the treasures surrounding him. "When
I was young, you spoke of a kingdom, but I thought it was just a story.
Father, this is wonderful! Thank you!"
The father suddenly burst into tears. "No, you don't understand, this
is the inheritance of my children who love me--not of whom I love."
"But, father, I..." the child's voice trailed off. "I love you."
"Love is not something said, my child. Love is something shown."
"I'm sorry. I was just so busy, and there were so many interesting
things. I didn't realize."
"I am sorry, too. But there is nothing I can do. Goodbye, my child,"
the father said, weeping.
The wonderful place began to fade into blackness.
"Goodbye?!" The child cried. "Father--how can you choose this for me?"
"Child, you chose this yourself -- everyday of your life."
"But, I don't want to leave! Please! This place is like heaven..." The
child's voice faded into the darkness.
"Yes," the father buried his face in his hands. "Yes, it is."
Your Father in Heaven loves you and waits for you. He wants to be a part of
your life now and forever. There is nothing he won't forgive you. He
understands you and loves you just the way you are. Turn to him and ask him
to lead you home to Him.
God bless you. |
