On this Father’s Day we offer these words of tribute to the Father, and since the backdrop for this tribute is in the Church, it will be with Divine Fatherhood as the focus of our attention this morning.
For the young son, dad represents everything he wants to be in life “when he grows up.” Watch with eyes and ears that record how dad lives, whether at home, at work, or in family play time. This recording takes place every day of his life, as one day he will press play and become a dad himself.
To the youngest daughter, Dad is her knight in shining armor with the responsibility of protecting her, yet gentle enough to shower her with his unconditional love when she needs to know he’s there. To her, Daddy remains “Daddy” through the turbulent years of the trials of adolescence, then, with a tear falling and trembling lips, she kisses “Daddy” on the cheek at their wedding in the hopes of marrying someone who will love her. love and protect her “just like Daddy did.”
Some dads have become leaders of their family without a godly example in their home growing up, but have determined in their own hearts to start a legacy of love so that their own children will have a good example to follow. As Joshua of old challenged the people in Joshua 24:15b, he states these words, then does all he can to fulfill the pledge: “But I and my house will serve the Lord.”
The godly Father recognizes his own shortcomings and failures from time to time as he shepherds his family, and he will be humble enough to turn to the strength of his heavenly Father for help and guidance. 2 Corinthians 12:9a “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” The godly Father is not ashamed to admit moments of weakness and inadequacy, and yes, he may even shed a tear or two as he faces the challenges of his family’s life and leadership. He longs to look up to God and confess his need to Him Who is all-sufficient and all-knowing.
We applaud you dad, as you sacrifice for your family in so many ways, but we also encourage you to give your most valuable asset to your children as much as possible, which is, of course, your time. Those special moments of playing ball in the backyard can wear out the lawn a bit, but it will grow a great relationship. Those first few mornings of fishing together may not add up to much for dinner, but the conversations while fishing will be a big catch for both dad and boy. Taking the time for a “Your Daughter Date” will give you an example of what to look for in manners and actions when you start dating.
There is a statement that “time is of the essence”, and this is the case when parents and children interact.
Thank you for working, planning, caring, disciplining, teaching and yes, learning how to be the best dad you can be. In a world that says “I can’t”, thank you for saying “I can too!”
Most of all, thank you for being “Dad” and trusting your Heavenly Father to guide you on the journey.
Provided by – http://www.churchletters.net
(It is not necessary to note the source if it is placed in a bulletin or given to the Fathers of your Congregation)
Happy Father’s Day!