Perfect Father

Read: Mark 10:13-16

“Is something wrong with the macaroni, buddy?” Graham’s mom asked as she watched her son push the pasta from one side of his plate to the other.

Graham looked at his uneaten dinner. “No, it’s fine. I’m just not hungry tonight. May I be excused?”

“I guess so,” Mom said quietly.

Graham headed to his bedroom. He sank into his bed and stared at the ceiling. He didn’t want to tell his mom how he felt. It might make her sad again. His thoughts shifted to his best friend, Gideon, but were interrupted by a knock at his door.

“May I come in, honey?” asked Mom.

“Yes,” Graham replied with a sigh.

Mom opened the door. “I was washing the dishes and couldn’t stop wondering if something was wrong.”

Graham hesitated. “Well, uh, tomorrow is the father and son fishing trip at church.” Tears filled his eyes as he continued. “Gideon and his dad are going. Mom, I just miss Dad so much.”

Mom walked to the bed and wrapped Graham in her arms. There had been such a hole in their family since Graham’s dad left, never even saying goodbye.

“I know, my sweet boy.” Tears trickled down both of their cheeks. The world seemed to stand still for a few moments.

“Graham, remember when you asked Jesus to be your Savior a year ago?” Mom asked. Graham nodded.