I once postulated that it takes a parent to appreciate another parent. I had occasion to put this to the test when I stopped over in London to see Prince, my son-in-law, his wife, and their baby, Sarah. I asked them what lesson has come to stay since they became parents. They told me that they have come to appreciate their parents much better. They are first time parents, having to deal with just one baby and they have had to give up so much. Prince would often beat the path home during lunchtime to see how the baby and mother are doing. On her part, my daughter said she had not managed four hours of sleep at a stretch, particularly since her mother left. They dot on the baby for every whimsical move. Parents who feel discouraged at the way their children are behaving should not lose heart. They should pray to live long and for those children to become parents themselves. The narrative will change automatically.

Whatever earthly parents do for their children fades in comparison with what God the Father does for His creation…He is never selfish nor short of capacity. Those who come to God can be sure of His loving care all through life.

Taking things further, should we not rather appreciate the Father of all? Whatever earthly parents do for their children fades in comparison with what God the Father does for His creation. While teaching the disciples on the goodness of God, Jesus reasoned that if earthly fathers know how to give good gifts to their children, how much more would the Heavenly Father give good things to those who ask Him. By nature, human beings are selfish and limited in capacity. If despite these they still act favourably towards their children, we can be sure that God will do much better. After all, He is never selfish nor short of capacity. Those who come to God can be sure of His loving care all through life.