NOTE:  I wrote this article back in 1993 before I personally became a father.  Since the birth of my daughter, Allison, it has really taken on a new meaning for me.
 
What Will They See?
 
    Someday, God willing, I'm going to be a daddy. Someday, there will be little ones who'll carry my name into the next generation.  And, unless for some reason, I am someday separated from them, there will always be little eyes looking up to me, studying me, watching my actions, my reactions, measuring me up.  I wonder how I'll fare.  Years from now, living with their own children reflecting on the lives behind them, I wonder how they'll remember dear old dad.  Growing up as my heirs, what will they see?

    When crawling gives way to those precious first steps, will they see my outstretched arms eagerly reaching for their little hands?
    When the midnight thunder and lightning threatens to pierce through their bedroom window, will they see Daddy standing in the doorway ready to calm the chaos?
    When they stand at the front of the crowd bubbling with enthusiasm reciting their kindergarten poetry, will they see my smiling face behind the camera capturing the moment?
    When their love for Jesus leads them to put Him on in baptism, will they see Daddy at the water side crying tears of joy and waiting to welcome his co-heir to the family of God?
    When the science fair inspires my children to give their all to their projects, will they find me interested and engrossed in their efforts to put together a winner?
    When they timidly approach Daddy with a disappointing report card, will they find a reassuring look on my face and an encouraging smile that says, "Don't give up"?
    When the years of hard work lead to high school and college graduation, will they see a proud father's doting eyes looking on from the shadows of the crowd?
    And, when at last their days under Daddy's roof have led them to marriage, will they find me there giving them over to their mate with a tear and a hug that says, "Thanks for the love"?
    I guess what I really wonder is, will they see me from all the same angles I see my own Daddy.  Will I be all the priceless things he continues to be for me?  Keeping fresh the memories of his example and the timeless illumination of God's Word, I trust I will.

    Thank you God for the priceless gift of fathers.
    And to all the worthy dads in our lives, thank you for the years of patience, guidance, and love that make us who we are today.

Mitchell Brown
 
Return to Religion Page
 
(Return to Home Page)