There are a couple of ways to retrieve something that is out of reach.  A father may pick up his son and lift him to where the son can take hold of the object.  On the other hand, the father may just decide to use a stick to reach the desired object.  

When a father decides to involve his son in the task at hand, the relationship between the father and son is emphasized and enhanced.  There is communication, instruction and a shared satisfaction at accomplishing the task.

On the other hand, if the father decides to use a stick to accomplish the task, there is no relationship involved.  The task ends with the casting aside of the stick.

God accomplishes His purposes both ways.  Some individuals are sons or daughters whose relationship shares in the joy of accomplishing God’s purposes and plans.  Others are just sticks which are cast aside when God’s purpose is accomplished.  The saddest part about this is that the sticks don’t even know that they are just sticks.

A son or a stick, which one are you?