Craig Clouston

 Imitate the Father

September 21

In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.

Matthew 7:12

Crystie and Andrew were still reeling from shock. They had just discovered

that their investment firm had become involved in shady marketing strategies

and had lost all their holdings.

“What are we going do, Andy?” The hurt and anger were apparent in her

voice. “They can’t get away with this!”

“I don’t know, Crystie,” Andrew said, his own thoughts scrambled. Their

broker was supposedly one of their best friends. How could this have happened?

Trying to order his thoughts, Andrew wondered if there was any legal

action they could take that would allow them to recoup their losses. “I’ll con-

tact Jay and ask him what they intend to do for the shareholders. Maybe it’s not

as bad as it appears.” He wasn’t nearly as hopeful as he tried to sound.

“Do you think Jay is mixed up in this too? I mean … ” She just let it drop

in midsentence.

Andrew was quickened in his spirit, remembering how this had all begun.

“Listen, we prayed about this. We were sure God said to move forward. He’s

still in control, and we have to believe He’ll work this out. As far as Jay, I don’t

want to believe he would be involved directly, but regardless, we’re gonna get

through it.” He drew Crystie close and kissed the top of her head.

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In the parable of the gifts of the Father, Jesus says we have a choice in how we

treat others; He suggests we are capable of doing good.

Some in today’s society are willing to risk other people’s livelihood in an

attempt to profit, not caring how they do so in order to attain their goal.

How we treat each other has to do with where we get our strength and

Who, if anyone other than ourselves, we trust in.

Jesus told those listening to consider how they treated others. He was say-

ing, regardless of how others treat us, we have a choice in how we treat them.

He’s suggesting we imitate the Father.

Prayer

“Lord, it’s not easy dealing with someone who intentionally

sets out to deceive us. Help me extend mercy and grace so

that peace will reign in my heart. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”