Like Father, Like Son

My wife turned to me the other day and said, “You are getting to be more and more like your dad every day, and it’s not just the bald head and the bushy moustache. When you pray you sound just like him.” I take that as a compliment. The legacy left me was one of strong Christian values. We, as Christians, must always be aware that someone is following our life patterns whether we realize it or not.

Rehoboam is given the choice on how to run the kingdom. The problem is, it would be a natural response for Rehoboam to follow the pattern of his father Solomon and place a heavy yoke on the Israelite people. After all, his dad got away with it. Later on, Rehoboam decides to subjugate his people by increasing their burdens. Normal logic, however, will tell you that to oppress a people is not the path to loyalty. Rehoboam did not have the sophistication, reputation or experience of Solomon. He did not recognize from experienced elder advice that this was a golden opportunity to win the favour and support of the Israelite people.

We, as parents and grandparents, have our own golden opportunity to be positive and Christian, loving role models for those who follow us.

Lord God, guide us to be positive. Amen. — G/CW