March 16th Devotional
March 16, 2010
By Nancy White Martinez
1 John 3: 1 See how very much our Father loves us, for He calls us His children, and that is what we are!
I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.”
(Proverbs 4:11-13) (NIV)
Today is my father’s birthday. I will give him a call. We’ll exchange a few words then he’ll say, “I’ll put your mother on.” A man of few words, indeed. As my sister and I were growing up, Dad was often silent – engrossed in a book or the NYTimes crossword (always completed within minutes, in ink). Yet, Dad’s few words and actions taught us so much. He is a man of understanding and a quiet, even temper. Our emotional highs and lows were met with calm. He taught us to respect all people and to celebrate racial and cultural differences as opportunities to learn more about our world. Dad took us on hikes, pointing out the natural wonders. He would look at our homework then ask a harder question or give us a book to read to augment or challenge what we were learning. As I prepared to leave for college he sat me down for a rare “talk” and gave me a favorite book of his, saying it would advance my quest for knowledge (it did).
As our sons grew up, they loved to hike or kayak with their Grandpa through nature preserves in Florida, moving gingerly and quietly so as not to disturb the habitat or frighten away birds, sea life, frogs, butterflies, deer, bobcats or even alligators that they might observe. Fishing with Grandpa was another favorite activity. Recently Dad packed up his fishing equipment and presented it to our eldest son, who was thrilled to be carrying on a tradition he loves. Grandpa still comes through with books – recommended reading – for our sons, the way he did with me. History, physics, poetry, literature – all are carefully selected and richly diverse.
I recall Proverbs 17:27: A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered. When I call Dad today, I’ll tell him that I know his love has been ever present and thank him for his guidance. Then I will take time to remember, with thanks, that God’s love is ever present and that God is the path.
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