For several years, my dad was a cross-country truck driver and one of the most important things he carried with him was his atlas. The grandkids liked to look at this well-used book on occasion, but my dad was very particular about it. He knew the atlas was crucial in order for him to make his deliveries on time and to get them to the correct location. It was several years after his retirement that I was making a road trip with him in my car, and he brought along the old atlas. I grinned when I saw it, and he grinned, too. He knew we could now use GPS, and all sorts of better technology, but the atlas was important to him, and it was his way of knowing for sure that we would end up at our destination.
Another book that my dad cherishes is his Bible. Many times, I’ve heard him quote scriptures, history, and lessons from this great book. Dad has a deep understanding of the Bible, because he’s studied it and he realizes its importance and validity. The Bible is his road map along life’s highways and gives him hope for reaching his final destination.
Dad is one who has inspired and challenged me to become better acquainted with God’s Word. He’d often share about things he’d read and the application to daily living. It’s been inspiring for me to watch as my father’s faith has strengthened throughout the years. His trust in God was never more evident as he cared for my mother during the final years of her life.
He was determined to let her spend her final days at their home. Dad cared for her every need, tenderly and patiently, making sure that Mom was as comfortable as she could possibly be. He’d often say, “When I said ‘I do’ fifty-some years ago, I meant it!” Dad leaned on God’s Word to tackle every day. There were many challenges, and as time went on, the challenges grew. Dad’s faith never wavered, and his resolve never dimmed. When Mom passed, she was lying comfortably in their home, surrounded by those who loved her most, because Dad knew “with God all things are possible!”
How about you? What map do you use to maneuver life’s roadways? The Bible is the only book that will keep you from running into a dead end, and will never let you get lost. This Advent season, you could begin by reading the wonderful story of how Jesus came to earth in Luke chapters 1 and 2. Happy reading and Merry Christmas!
Susan Easttom, Director of Children’s Ministry
