One of the most endearing, easy-to-understand Gospel images is that of God the Father.

• If your earthly father was a good man who loved you and cared for you, then this Gospel image of God the Father is precious to you.

• If your earthy father failed you or maybe even hurt you, then think of what a perfect father would have been like — and multiply it by a thousand — and you will start to understand this gospel image of God the Father!

This image of God as Father goes back to the Garden of Eden, where Adam is referred to as a son of God (Luke 3). Marriage and Family, with Fathers and Mothers, were God’s design for His Creation since the beginning: in the Garden of Eden. Earthly fathers and mothers are to reflect God the Father’s love and care.

Love is the sign that you are a Child of God.

This love for other people is a gift from Christ and a fruit of the Holy Spirit. It is not a worldly kind of love; it is a Gospel kind of love. This kind of love is patient and kind towards others. This kind of love serves and helps others as Christ has served and helped you. This kind of love gets involved in serving others – it is busy and active. Jesus describes this love in the “Golden Rule” when He taught: “do unto others as you would have them do to you.” Jesus also said, “My command is this: ‘Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’” John 15:12-13 Love for others is self-sacrificing; it is getting involved in people’s lives; it is loving with no strings attached.

Love is the sign that you are a Child of God.
Your status in God’s eyes is that of His child.
You are part of His family.
He takes the responsibility to be your Heavenly Father.

Behold! What kind of love the Father has lavished on you, that you should be called children of God; and so that is what you are! (1 John 3:1 paraphrase)

Amen!