Jesus answered, “Love the Lord your God will all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” This is the most important commandment. The second most important commandment is like it: “Love your neighbor as you love yourself”’
Matthew 22:37-39 GNB
“What do you think Dad would like for Father’s Day?” My children wanted to get their father a special gift.
I wondered, what would our heavenly Father like for Father’s Day?
David left us his insight into a similar query. I imagine David thought something along these lines. “What should I give God this year? Let’s see, I gave him a goat last year. Maybe that prize-winning bull over there. It’s impressive! No, I know the perfect gift!”
I will praise God with a song; I will proclaim his greatness by giving him thanks. This will please the Lord more than offering him cattle, more than sacrificing a full-grown bull (Psalm 69:30-31 GNB).
What was the difference between an animal sacrifice and a song of praise or a poem of thanksgiving? God established the animal sacrificial system, after all. Sacrifices and offerings were the obligatory gifts of the day, like a card and tie for dads now.
But David wanted to give something better, something that would touch Father God’s heart. It would take time and introspection but would be worth all the effort. Building relationship would please his Daddy.
My husband would much rather hang out with his children on Father’s Day than any gift he could be given. A hug or a simple “I love you, Dad” is enough.
When asked the foremost commandment, Jesus said to love God and love others. Again, relationship is preeminent.
Thankfully, David wrote many songs (psalms) we can pray back (or sing) to God. Hymns, praise choruses or Christian CD’s work also.
Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need (Hebrew 13:15-16).
Happy Father’s Day, Daddy God!
Terri
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