A father's love.

It was a video-clip that a dear cousin posted on Facebook that reminded me of the one below.  I saw this clip many years ago.  I defy anyone, who does not have a brick in place of a heart, not to become at least a little bit emotional as you watch it. It is, of course, a genuinely true story!

So, did you manage to watch to the end with totally dry eyes?  I know that I cannot do so!  However, I see so much more in that clip.  It is, to me, a picture of, not just a father's love, but of THE Father's love.  For the true disciple of Jesus, the sequence in which Dick Hoyt carries his son, in his arms, from the ocean to the cycle, is surely a picture of our homecoming.  When I arrive in glory, I shall be all too aware that it is nothing that I have done, or ever could do, that has got me there.  It is the Lord Jesus, God the Son, Who has carried me.   I love the way in which so many are applauding.  I am reminded of those wonderful words penned by the anonymous author of the Letter to Hebrew disciples of Jesus: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses , let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the Pioneer and Perfecter of our faith, Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Heb 12:1-2).  

The story of Team Hoyt is, indeed, inspirational.  Dick Hoyt should be honoured, at least by his own government.  However, the story of the salvation that is made available to each and every one of us, is even greater.  Dick Hoyt has the personal pleasure of a great achievement (although I doubt that that is what is uppermost in his mind as he faces the challenge that the IronMan entails).  When the Lord Jesus "carries me over the finishing line" it will be to His glory.

Are you running the race - with Him?  If not, why not?  His love for you, and for me, makes even the amazing love of Dick Hoyt pale into insignificance by comparison!  He's a wonderful Saviour.  I commend Him to you.