I shall pass this way but once: any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness that I can show... let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again. Author unknown

I read a story a number of years ago about a father who had scolded his son for not washing his face, for not cleaning his shoes, for leaving his things out, for spilling, for gulping his food, for spreading the butter too thick on his bread. Later, he humiliated his little boy in front of his friends for having holes in his socks (they cost money, you know) and marched him into the house to further take care of the problem.

That evening, the boy interrupted his Dad's reading of the paper. "What is it you want?" snapped the father. The little boy ran to his Daddy, threw his arms around his neck, kissed him on the cheek and then ran out of the room. Shortly thereafter, the paper slipped from the father's hand and he bowed his head in grief - what had he done?

If this sounds familiar, it's because you are a parent. We all get caught up in the lessons we must teach our children, but sometimes we forget one of the most important lessons of all: They are but children, and we have them for a very short time.

My kids are all pretty much grown up now, but I will never forget the impact that this story had on me the first time I heard it - when my kids were still kids. While I never became the perfect Daddy, I can tell you that this story helped me become a better one and helped me to have a better perspective on one of the most important responsibilities that our Lord has gifted us with.

I can also tell you in retrospect that we truly do pass this way but one time and our kids are grown before we know it. If we will make the most of our opportunities with our kids, not neglecting the needed lessons and discipline, but giving equal care not to neglect our chances to make them feel valuable and secure and loved, then we will have gone a long way in making the most of this precious responsibility and privilege.

Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. Colossians 3:21, NIV

Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 

Ephesians 5:15-16, NIV