Seven thoughts for Fathers on Father’s Day

First, remember that your children will include your behavior in their understanding of God.  Perhaps this is unfair and maybe even unhealthy - but it's still going to happen.  They will mix the earthly father and the heavenly Father.  Be a good representation of God for them.

Second, every single day you teach your children about marriage.  Daughters are learning how they should expect to be treated and sons are learning how to treat their future wife.  School is always in session on this one.  Teach them well.

Third, we are too easily robbed of joy in the journey.  The stress of life, guilt, responsibilities, bills, fear, and false expectations live rent free in our minds with a host of relatives.  When that happens, the simple joy of growing together gets lost.  Laughing together is more important than most of what we call "important."

Forth, the job of dad is temporary, it only lasts as long a your heartbeat does.  When your heartbeat stops you don't parent anymore.  Until then… parent.

Fifth, our day became official over forty years after Mother's Day was made official.  Let's face it; our day is a mercy day.  "We gave moms a day it's only fair that dads get one too."  I wouldn't recommend complaining about this because the "number of hours of labor" card will be played.  They win.

Sixth, Mother's Day is one of the five highest church attendance days in the year and Father's Day is one of the five lowest. That says something about our priorities that I think we should examine.

Seventh, thanks.  Thanks for giving of yourselves.  Thanks for investing in your family.  Thanks for caring about your children and dreaming about their future.  Thanks for protecting them and being willing to lay your life down for theirs. Thanks for standing up for what you know is right and teaching your kids to do the same.  Thanks for having the desire to grow and learn from your mistakes.  Thanks for letting God work in your life.

Pastor Dave