My dad, former procrastinators, would periodically go “to the city” to pick up supplies for work. When we were young, he would often take us children with him – one at a time – on those day trips. It was a Day with Daddy.
He had the agenda and he included me. He drove, He navigated. He determined where we’d go, when, and how.
Sometimes he gave me a job to do organizing papers or checking his list.
Sometimes I was acquainted with the men he met, often not.
I waited and watched while he did business – at loading docks, offices, standing quietly during adult conversations, sitting in a chair with a giant parts catalog on my lap. Lots of waiting.
In the hubbub of voices in a corridor or loading dock, I knew my dad’s voice especially when it was meant for me.
He let me choose where to eat, or he’d suggest “We’ll be near Coco’s by lunchtime. Want a giant piece of that coconut cream pie?”
Occasionally, he’d say “We finished early. There’s time for a movie before we go home.”
The best part of the day was the long talks in the car. We covered many topics. I listened; he listened. Those talks helped shape me.
Conversations at the dinner table regarding the news, school, and work also taught me his thinking. I learned from being disobedient and receiving discipline. Fun times showed me more about his nature.
I learned a lot about my dad’s heart and thinking, his expectations and desires, and how he did things. He certainly did what needed doing when it needed doing without delay.
As I ponder this, I see parallels with my heavenly Father and His Holy Spirit. Look over these things again to see what parallels you notice. They encourage me as I contemplate keeping in step with the Spirit.
I learned to recognize my dad’s ways by spending time with him and paying attention to him. That’s what I need to do with the Holy Spirit in me. Also, just as I learned in some respects to be like my earthly dad, I want to learn to be like my heavenly Father. The Holy Spirit within me enables that.
I knew my dad’s voice. Sometimes I’m not sure I clearly know the Spirit’s voice. But I know this: His voice is consistent with His holy nature and His ways. We learn those in scripture. We also get to observe His work in us and others.
Lord, attune us to pay attention so we learn your ways and your voice.
Looking over the above description, what especially stands out to you regarding the Holy Spirit?
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