Imagine seeing Lincoln as his law partner William Herndon described:  “Lincoln would come down to our office…with one or two of his little children, hauling them in the same little wagon, and in our office, then and there, write declarations, pleas, and other legal papers.”

In the White House it was recorded concerning Lincoln and his two youngest sons, Willie (10) and Tad (8) that “no room was sacred from their intrusion; no conference too weighty to be broken in upon by the rush of their onslaught.”
Excerpts taken from “Walking with Lincoln”, written by Thomas Freiling

President Lincoln understood the value and importance of being a father who was present.  He loved his children and seemingly always found ways to be available to them.  He understood that relationship and love are wrapped up in being available and engaged with kids.  He not only loved being with his own children, he loved being with children period.

President Lincoln understood clearly the words of Matthew 19:14;
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them;
for such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Men, we have the awesome privilege and responsibility to engage with our children and especially with our sons.  We need to put ahead of ourselves the children God brings across our path and into our lives. 

In the context of God’s plan, it is up to godly men to invest in the lives of sons and spiritual sons to leave a legacy of service, of discipleship and of love.  That should mean more than career or possessions.

May it be so in my life…to the third and fourth generation as God allows.