Imperfect Parents

Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:18–23

Dante was getting ready to go meet some friends when his father came in from the backyard. Dad was frowning. “Dante,” he said, “how often do I have to tell you to put the garden tools away when you’re done with them?” He held up a rake and a hoe. “I found these out in the yard. Who knows how long they’ve been out there?”

“But, Dad,” said Dante, “I didn’t . . .”

“Don’t try to make excuses,” his father interrupted sternly. “I’m not going to let you off easy this time.” As Dante began to protest again, it seemed to make his father angrier. “Not another word! Go to your room till it’s time for supper,” ordered Dad.

Dante flopped onto his bed and brushed away a tear. It’s not fair! I didn’t leave that stuff out, but Dad won’t listen, he thought. Now I’ll miss playing Owen’s new video game. He frowned when he saw his Bible on the dresser. How could God let this happen?

Late that afternoon, Dante heard his bedroom door open, and his father came in. Dad looked worried. “I have to apologize, Dante,” he said. “I just remembered I was the last one working in the garden. I left the tools there to come in and make a phone call yesterday, and then I forgot all about them.”

“I guess so,” Dante mumbled unhappily.

“Something like this happened when I was a boy,” said Dad. “My father punished me for something he thought I had done.”

“What did Grandpa say when he found out he was wrong?” asked Dante.

“He never did find out,” Dad said. “At first, I was bitter and questioned God, but then I realized that God wanted me to forgive my father, just like He forgave me for my sins. That lesson of forgiveness is one I’ve remembered the rest of my life.” Dad looked at Dante. “I’m hoping you’ll forgive me too.”

Dante couldn’t help but smile at the anxious expression on Dad’s face. “Okay, Dad. I forgive you. I know I shouldn’t expect you to be perfect.” He grinned. “I’ll remember this so I can tell my kids about it someday—just in case their father isn’t perfect either!” •Sherry L. Kuyt

How About You?

How do you feel when your parents make a mistake? Do you become bitter and critical? Do you hold a grudge against them? Or do you remember that, like everyone else, parents aren’t perfect—but that Jesus wants you to forgive them as well as other people who hurt you? He’s forgiven you for the wrong things you’ve done, and He’ll help you forgive others—including your parents.

Today’s Key Verse: Ephesians 4:32 Be kind . . . forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Be willing to forgive your parents