Perfect Parenting

I keep seeing reports of the 'Tiger Mom', a Chinese American mother of the toughest sort, who 'encouraged' her children to practice the piano for hours on end, so that they would always succeed. I haven't read the details, but the general outline makes for a great story. The overall drive toward progress and success shown by migrant Chinese communities all around the world is in stark contrast to most most host communities. And the mainland Chinese aren't doing too baldy either! And it all seems to go back to the parents.
While we may not think these extremes of parenting are healthy, it is undoubtedly true that parents have a great privilege and responsibility. How can we get the right balance?
Jesus speaks of God as 'Our Father', and reveals his character to us, as the Perfect Parent, whose love, faithfulness and consistency provide the security within which we can learn to flourish. Jesus' own experience of His father's love rooted him. 'As Jesus came up out of the water, he saw the heavens splitting apart and the Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.”' (Mark 1.10,11) And then as his ministry approached its costly conclusion, Jesus heard again of his Father's love. 'Then a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my dearly loved Son. Listen to him.”' (Mark 9.7)
If it was important for Jesus to know of His Father's love, so it is for us. He is our Perfect Parent, who will support and strengthen us every day.
I am so grateful that I too can know God like this. I shall thank Him today.
Best wishes,
Richard