Christmas is on the way

Anyone that knows me knows that this time of year is my absolute favorite.  From the first chill in the air, to the smell of burning wood in the outdoors; from the smell of food stuffs in the kitchen to the lights, I love it all.  And on the rare chance that I get to take a break from work I love to go to the malls and check out future purchases.

This year though I've been able to appreciate it through the eyes of a father for the very first time.  Granted Steph was with us last year, but only 6 months old at the time.  I was still stumbling around as a new father, and it went by so quickly.  But this year is definitely different.  I can see more of her personality and her smile. And what a blessing that has been. 

You see, I've always believed that we are created in His image, and furthermore I believe that there are character traits that we have inherited from Him.  For example, when looking at your children, have you ever wondered how much He loves us?  How He must look at us, stare upon our faces the same way we do with our spouses in wonderment and with an everlasting love?

Before I go to work in the morning, I make it a point to go to Steph's crib.  I like to talk to her a few minutes and rub her stomach or caress her face to feel her one last time before I go.   I tell her I love her and I miss her and that I will see her soon. And with a deep breath, I leave - immediately looking forward to my return.

I imagine God is the same way with us.  Granted He has a lot more to look in on than I do, but I believe the feelings are the same, only, well, more perfect.  I imagine He feels for us very much like I do, when i stand by her crib and watch her sleep, the motion of her stomach rising and falling.  I stare at her face and notice the form of her lips, exactly like mine - my daughter.  An immensely strong and powerful loves swells inside of me, unlike I have ever known before.  Here she is my child, made in my image with many of my character traits (both good and bad). It not only brings a smile to my face but a knowing that I have that same relationship with Him that brings both peace and comfort.

Joseph's Lullaby - an excellent song for Christmas by MercyMe.  A song  that would cause me to tear up as I imagined Joseph's love for that child, not of his blood but God made.  And now as a father, I can't even put into words what that song means to me.  So I won't even try . . .  But wow, is it a powerful song . . .