This week I am at the beach with my family. There are four generations of us. It's always amusing to me, although it happens far too seldom, to go somewhere with my mother, my daughter, and my granddaughters; ultimately people will recognize our relationship and comment on how much we look alike (and even act alike). As much as I enjoy that, what I really want is to look like, and act like, my Daddy. You know Him, Daddy with a capital D. I know that to look like Him I need to be putting off my old likeness, and putting on the "new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:24).

This family relationship means more than just being called by His Name. or even going places with Him--it literally means taking on His characteristics. "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgives you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (Col. 3:12-17).  There are a lot of action verbs in there, a lot of "works," but because I love my Daddy and have faith in Him, even though sometimes the "works" are pretty tough, I do my best; and with Daddy's help, I'm getting better and better. I want to hear people say, "You look just like your Daddy."

Awesome Abba Daddy, I can't be where I am today and not thank You for Your amazing creation, for the sun and sea, the manatees and their joyful dance, the dolphins and gulls, and even the shells that Jorja has so much fun playing with. Now Lord, I ask that You would change me today. Help me to take on more of the family likeness. I want to be like you! Amen