I remember the first time my father-in-law called me son. Cathy and I were newly married, yet I still felt like an outsider to the family. My status changed, however, the moment my second dad laid claim to me. From that moment forward, I knew I was wanted, included, and loved.

Years ago, I purchased a Precious Moments figurine for my wife on Valentine’s Day. The model features a mother embracing her child affectionately. The image kindles memories in my mind of snuggling with my own mother.

The Great Commandment directs us to love in three directions: upwardly (God), outwardly (neighbor), and inwardly (one’s self). Much of Christian teaching centers on the first two objectives and largely ignores the third. To be certain, all love starts with and comes from God.

The other night, Cathy and I were searching the nighttime skies for a glimpse of the Perseids meteor shower. Sadly, we failed to see anything. Yet a wonderful thought did enter my mind.

     A robin has made her nest in one of Cathy’s flowerpots. As we stand on the front porch, we can hear the chicks peeping. Every so often, we capture a glimpse of the mother hovering over her babies, feeding them, protecting them, and nurturing them.

     The following poem was written by T. S. Elliot back in 1922:

 

“Within my earthly Temple there’s a crowd,
There’s one who’s humble and one who’s proud.