I was browsing in a book department while waiting in a shopping center for my wife to complete her shopping. I happened to overhear a young wife pleading with her husband: "Here is something you could give to your dad for Christmas." Her tone sounded final and weary, as if the couple had been searching for some time. I turned, somewhat casually, and took a sidelong glance. The husband drew near and examined the object she lifted to his view, an excellently crafted model ship done in hand-carved wood.

The young man grabbed for the price tag, then acted stunned as he blurted out, "Ugh! Thirty-five dollars!" Then with a scowl, he snapped, "He's not worth that much." I shuddered, wondering what the father had done to spoil the son's regard for him.

How much is a father worth? How much is a son or a daughter worth? This son was hurting inside from something his father had or had not done toward him. Now, in his search for a cheap gift, he was betraying his own cheap view of his father's worth. That son did not feel valued, so he was unwilling to confer value.

If only that young man had known his worth in the sight of God! If only he could have forgiven his father! If he could find release from his feelings, he could be an agent of love to make his father sense his worth.