I can’t count the number of speeches, lectures, and sermons I’ve heard in my life. If I had to put a number to it I’d guess about a million (well, maybe not that many; math has never been my strong suit). I tune out the first half of all of speakers and tune back in when the orator, lecturer, or preacher gets to the application. That’s my favorite part because nine times out of ten they turn to a story to make their point. The most memorable of all I heard about 20 years ago.
There was a young family with two small children. The parents adored their children and their children adored their mommy and daddy. The oldest, a daughter, was named Abby, and her younger brother was named Adam. Two years separated them in age and they were inseparable.
Soon after Abby started school she showed symptoms of fatigue followed by weight loss and pains throughout her body. Her parents sought help from her doctor, then were referred to one after the other of specialists throughout the country. After a year of medical trips and tests, world-renowned specialists at a research hospital diagnosed Abby with a rare blood disorder. The best hope for a cure rested in finding the closest match for donor surgery. Without finding a match, and without the surgery, there was no hope.
The parents began donor testing immediately, but, unfortunately, both were disqualified due to their own medical conditions. The doctors suggested testing young Adam as a possible match. Reluctantly, they agreed, fully expecting bad news.
After two days the family received a call from the physician – Adam was a perfect match and began scheduling the procedure. The parents were elated as they explained to Adam the good news and how he would be able to save Abby.
At the hospital, Abby and Adam were prepped for the procedure. As his parents explained that the procedure would soon be over, young Adam looked at them and asked, “Mommy/Daddy, when will I die?” Their parents looked at each other realizing that this precious child loved his sister so much he thought he was going to have to die so she could live.
To give your life so another person can live is the ultimate proof of love. On the night that Jesus was betrayed, He told His disciples of His intention to give His life in exchange for mankind. Then He set the ultimate example of self-sacrifice by going to the cross.
Just like earthly parents who love their children unconditionally and sacrificially, you and I have a Heavenly Father who loves us just that much.
John 15:13 “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
Tagged: God’s love, parenting
