in his image

​Looking at him, I see my son growing up all over again.  Lucas was made in the image of his father.  He looks so much like his dad that I call him Little Andy. 
 
The name Little Andy all began one day as I was talking to Lucas.  I looked at him and said, “You look just like your dad.”  Lucas beamed.  I went on to say, “I think I’m going to call you Little Andy.”  His grin became even bigger.
 
Lucas is proud to look like his dad.  He loves his dad very much.  But the amazing thing is not only does Lucas look like his dad, in many ways he acts like his dad.  Lucas is sensitive and cautious.  He is inquisitive and intelligent.  And very important – he loves Michigan football and basketball!
 
I feel like I have been given a gift.  As I watch Lucas grow, I am reminded of the early years of my oldest son.  Images and words replay in my head.  I have to remind myself that while there are many similarities between Lucas and his dad, there are also differences.  Lucas is his own person. 
 
Lucas is loved by God and his dad.  While he was made in the image of his father, Lucas has also been given free will.  He will not do things exactly as his father did them.  Yet, his dad will always love him even as Lucas experiences the ups and downs of life and makes mistakes.  Lucas will have choices that will not be dictated by his father. 
 
While Lucas is in his early years, his dad will mold and shape him (mom will too).  His father and mother will lay a foundation for the future.  And then when Lucas becomes a man, Lucas will have to make decisions concerning his path in life.  Seeing the relationship that Lucas has with his father, I anticipate that Lucas will seek the advice and counsel of his father throughout his adult years.  Lucas will depend on his dad for continued unconditional love and support.  As the desires of all children, Lucas will look for his father’s blessing and approval. 
 
There will come a point where my son will have to let his son “go off into the world” and make a life of his own.  Lucas will know that his father is there for him whenever Lucas needs him.  And when Lucas has children of his own, he will not forget the ways of his father.  He will remember that he was made in his dad’s image and the love he shared with his father.  He will probably not forget experiences shared with dad and “words of wisdom” given. 
 
If Lucas turns out anything like his father, he will be a fine young man.  He will not be perfect, but he will lead a Godly life filled with hope even during those times of sadness.  In his father’s eyes, Lucas will always be perfect, perfectly and wonderfully made!
 
BEcky