I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3

About three years ago I was standing in my basement unloading wet clothes from the washing machine. I was not big on prayer at the time because I wasn't sure that God was really interested in anything that I might have to say. As I was transferring the clothes from the washer to the dryer I overcame the urge to remain silent and prayed a simple prayer. I said "God, I thank you that you love me more than I love my son". The prayer was random and unintentional but it changed my life!

As a baby my son crapped in his diapers, kept me up at night, and for the first couple of months gave blank stares in response to my affection. He has never paid one bill and I could probably drive a Lexus if caring for him wasn't so expensive. He does not cook, clean, or mow the lawn. Based upon all of the inconveniences that he has brought to my life there is almost no legitimate reason for me to love him.

But I do...with every fiber of my being. When I prayed that prayer I pondered the reasons why I loved him so much. In that moment I realized it was because he belongs to me.

When my son cries I comfort him. When he is concerned, I listen. When he has a task that is greater than his ability to handle, I am right there helping him do what he could not do alone. He is 10 now and he doesn't always think that I know what is best for him. But I will never abandon him.

Like my son, I have occasionally made a mess of things. I have failed and created problems bigger than my ability to handle. But my Dad (God) loves me more than I love my son. He has been with me through good times and bad. Why? Because I am His son and I belong to Him.