Quite a strong statement, isn’t it? But when I look at the list of where I fall short as a dad, it can get pretty long…
I lack patience with my kids in a BIG way.
I raise my voice to my kids way too often.
I sometimes give too much attention to other things (even good things) besides my kids.
I complain about the messes my kids make too often.
I don’t let my kids just be kids often enough.
I could go on, but I’m already embarrassed enough to admit those things as it is. Some days are better than others. Some days I feel like a pretty good dad. And some days and times I’m even good at faking that I’m a really good dad. Maybe I’m being hard on myself, but let me explain to you my comparison conundrum…
For thousands of years of civilization, deities were seen as controlling, angry, and even vindictive. They were not loving or loveable in any way. But, in the New Testament of the Bible, Jesus does something amazing. He not only makes God loving or loveable, but he gives God the title of “Father“. This was revolutionary!
Maybe you never knew your dad because he abandoned you before you were born or passed away tragically when you were a baby. Or maybe you wish you had never known your dad. Maybe all you do is argue and fight with him. Maybe he abused you in a deep way and only causes you pain. Maybe he has been a colossal disappointment. So you can do without the idea of God being a Father to you.
Well, God is not just a Father, but He is the best kind of Father. He is faithful, kind, compassionate, fair, and forgiving. Even the best parents pale in comparison to Jesus’ description of God as Father here in Luke 11. Jesus says compared to God even the best of the best parents look evil! That’s how good of a Father God is. So, picture that dad across the street who makes you sick with how great he is. And then multiply it by a few thousand times, and it’s still not as good as what God wants to be for you.
So, with this comparison in mind, I think it’s safe to say I’m a bad Dad. And I’m ok with that.
————————–
Share this post on social media with the hashtag #BadDad to keep the conversation going.