“Mom and Dad” by Darren Kiely
In the song Mom and Dad by Darren Kiely, the listener is brought into the story of a man who struggled from childhood through adolescence. There is a sense that much pain, sorrow, and trouble were brought upon the parents because of the child. Many of us can relate to this.
As the song continues, the son wonders aloud if his parents questioned their choices, doubted their decisions, and were often heartbroken. While the song starts low, the chorus brings us to a joyful crescendo as their hard work has made a difference. “See how I have grown from that strife” reveals that good is coming around and growth has been experienced.
It is a beautiful song, but the following lyrics are what truly stand out to me:
And in the dark those silent evenings
When I spoke, did you hear fight?
And I know you cried, you spoke in secret
You prayed with all your might
Without relent, you never weakened
You held me up each time
If you are a parent, I bet you have experienced the silence, confrontation, tearful prayers, and unrelenting love toward your child. I know I have. My son can make me as angry as anyone in the world, but he can also bring out love in me in a deeper way than nearly anyone else in the world.
Hear these final words:
And I know that you felt worthless
But each word you spoke held purpose
If you questioned were you worthless
Look at me
There is hope. Even when we feel ignored, we are being heard. Even when we feel like we are smothering, love is being received. Even when we say “I love you” too much, it is better than not enough.
Let me end this devotion with two encouragements:
If you are a parent, don’t give up. Keep loving even when it is hard and when it hurts. Be present. Be gracious. Be merciful. Be the hands of God embracing your child!
Whether or not you had that kind of love from a parent, you are loved in this way by your heavenly Father. He never stops, never gives up, and never runs out of love for you. He seeks you, helps you, and desires you.
Luke 15:20, 24 (The Prodigal Son)
And [the wayward son] arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him…
“For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.” And they began to celebrate.
