Like Father, Like Son

We are all influenced and shaped by those around us. Probably the strongest influence on a young boy is his father. Even though I lost my father when I was sixteen I still remember things 45 years later that he said. When I was a houseparent at a children's home I learned that no matter what a father had done the kids always defended and admired him, at least publicly.

When God selected the earthly father who would be involved in the life of his Son it was important that the right man be chosen. What God saw in Joseph is what needs to be seen in each of us fathers. The Bible tells us in Matthew 1 that Joseph was a just or righteous man. That is an essential characteristic for a good father. But that alone isn't enough. We read on that Joseph was a compassionate man not wanting to make Mary a public example. He also was a man who thought through the decisions he made. While he was thinking about the situation an angel appeared and explained the miracle being performed through Mary. In response Joseph indicated a final essential. He acted in obedience to the angel's instructions.

While we may not all have a father like Joseph we can be a father like Joseph. If our earthly father isn't a good model we still have a heavenly Father who is. And our heavenly Father has provided examples in scripture like Zacharias and Joseph. We tend to end up like our fathers. So the model we look up to is important. If you have not yet done so, establish a relationship with the heavenly Father today through his Son Jesus. Then pattern your life after him and those he lifts up before us as good examples.