Perhaps
one of the best Father's Day illustrations is the story of Derek
Redmond, a runner in the 1992 Olympics.
Derek was competing for the medal in the 400 meter race. Less
than half-way through, he ripped a hamstring muscle and
fell to the ground in agony. While the rest of the runners moved
past him, Derek managed to get to his feet and began struggling
to move forward.
Then something caught the attention of the television
cameras. An older man wearing blue shorts and a Nike "Just
Do It" cap pushed past a security guard onto the race
track. It was Derek's father, Jim.
At first Derek shrugged him away, saying, "I'm going to
finish the race." Jim said to his son, "We've started
everything together. We'll finish this together."
He put his arm around his son and held him as they crossed
the finish line together. The crowd erupted into thunderous
applause; it has become a classic moment in sports.
In fact, Oliver Irish, columnist for the UK based
"Observer" called it one of the top 10 "teary
moments" in sports. He said, "Not many moments ...
remain so poignant that they can reduce grown men to tears, but
this is a bona fide weepy."
This story challenges me,
as it challenges all fathers, to do whatever I can to help my
children finish the race. Even if—especially if—they stumble
along the way.
In the book of Isaiah, God said...
Listen to me...you whom I have upheld since you were
conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old
age and gray hairs I am he, I am he will sustain you. I have
made you and I will carry you. (Isaiah 46:3-4)
Fathers, by God's grace may we live with such strength and
integrity that we can say these words to our sons and daughters.
.............................................
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