Father's Day

In Thailand, December 5 is King Bhumibol Adulyadej 's birthday. The king is celebrating his 88th birthday. He has reigned since 1946. It is also considered Father's Day. All over the nation people are honoring their king; most whom have only known him as the king. He is highly revered and loved. He is truly adored as a father who has proven to care for his people; dedicating much time and energy for the improvement of the country and his people.

Quite coincidently today I remember the day of my father's passing. It was 10 years ago the Lord decided it was time to bring my father home to be with him. Though it has been so long, the feeling and longing is still strong. There is still heartache and times where I can't breath from missing him so.

He never saw his grandchildren. Something that I knew he waited for so long. There are moments when the kids do something special or funny I catch myself wishing he could be here to see it.
When I was little, my father always took time for me. He would take me to the park or play games with me. Even in his busy schedule, he would make sure to be present for all major events like school concerts or church pageants. He loved to get down and dirty with me to dig up for bugs or run out and help me ride my bike. I know he would have done the same with our boys.
I love my mother very  much but I am a proud daddy's girl. In my father's eyes I could do not wrong. Sometimes, when people ask whether I wished our family had a daughter, I jokingly answer that I was so spoiled by my father that I can't imagine having to share the title of the only princess of the house.
I have heard many times that people say their perspective of God the father is reflective of how they perceive their own father; some as a hard and unforgiving or some as weak and soft.  I can agree with that at some level. Even though my father wasn't perfect, and there were times we really conflicted, overall I adored my father. I always strived to please him and knew he loved me so much. Before my husband, he was the man I would run to if I was in trouble. As a little girl, if I got hurt, I would run into his arms. I can still remember his embrace and smell.
And that is how much I adore God. I wasn't perfect. I made many mistakes, but God was always on my side and I knew He loved me. If there was any trouble, I could run into our father God's arms.
This is also what drives me to share about God's love in Thailand. Sadly there are many who have never experienced this unconditional love; Lives empty or shattered. My heart burns to show them the father's love. To tell them that even when all seem lost there is hope and a love so beautiful and healing. Accepting you and inviting you.
So today, I remember my father and I hope I am making him proud. I am also asking Father God to continue to burden my heart for the Thais and all people to know of His great love for us.
Would you kindly say a prayer for Thailand and for our family to continue to be faithful to God's calling to us? Thank you dear friends.