Written by: Sophia Roman
Article source: JOY! Magazine
“And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to the fathers…” – Malachi 4:6
Harley Davidson grew up with his parents, Michael and Brenda, and his 5 siblings. His dad was a present-absent father who was home and present, yet they had no relationship. Mrs Davidson is a devoted believer who always prayed for her family, especially her husband.
Growing up was difficult because Harley’s dad had a drinking problem. Their mom’s consistent relationship with God was comforting and she faithfully took her children to church, Sunday after Sunday. Harley had a relationship with the Lord, but as he grew older he drifted from Christ. Harley’s high school years were the most painful, as he grew apart from his dad who never showed emotions. “My dad never said I love you,” the words Harley yearned to hear.
Committing to Christ
Harley and his wife, Lenita, found themselves in a hard place some years ago. Life became unbearable. One day Lenita came home and shared how she had found Christ as her Saviour by listening to a radio programme. Her newfound peace and joy brought a difference in their family life. Soon after this Harley joined her to church, and he too made a commitment to follow Jesus.
Harley took the difficult initiative to turn his heart towards his father.
Turning his heart towards his father
It was at this time when the yearning to have a relationship with his dad became stronger. Nothing had changed, the emotional distance was still there and the alcohol abuse ongoing. Harley longed to know his father and craved for a conversation.
Then one day, their church organised a Father/Son camp. Each delegate had to bring their sons along. Harley and Lenita only have daughters, and he asked if he could take his dad along instead. This was a great risk. The only way his father had ever greeted him was with a handshake. For the first time ever, Harley had to share a room with his dad. It felt uncomfortable and intimidating. He kept telling himself: “I need to make our relationship work”. That weekend changed both of their lives forever. It was uneasy, but Harley pulled through the feelings.
Throughout the entire weekend, Harley served his dad, made coffee for him, served his meals, made his bed, etc. It was the beginning of what was to come.
Turning his heart towards his son
In the following weeks after the camp, Harley’s dad asked if he could join his family to watch sports. The visits became more frequent. A softer side came to the forefront. Harley, Lenita, and their girls began to enjoy his company. Greeting with a handshake changed to greeting with a hug. Daddy started to compliment him. Harley’s 80-year-old mom started to see a change in her husband too.
Sharing Christ with his dad
Harley invited his dad to church and that night he received Christ into his life. Harley expressed: “My most vivid memory, I will never forget, was baptising daddy”. He took the initiative to turn his heart towards his father instead of waiting for another few years for his dad to make the move. He may have never made the move.
Michael died a year ago at age 84.
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Date published: 21/05/2022
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