Happy Father’s Day!

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (NIV)

What does Father’s Day mean to you? Do you have fond memories of your Father? Do your children celebrate this day with you? Does your heart ache because you don’t have a relationship with your Father?

We all have different experiences and memories of our Fathers. For me, I have fond memories of my dad (he passed away 16 years ago). He played ball with me in the backyard, he took me to church where I learned about Jesus, he taught me how to work, how to be responsible with money, provided me with food and clothing and was there to encourage me in the things I chose to do with my life.

For some of you, I know the memories of your father are painful. Your dad was not, or is not, there for you. You feel rejected and abandoned. The good news is our Heavenly Father loves each one of us and is ALWAYS there for us, no matter what.

Dads, you have a big responsibility (you’re raising the next generation). Take time to love your children’s mom (the children are watching), love your children (us moms love watching dads play with their children), and have fun (giggling, laughing) together as a family. And, as this verse says, teach your children God’s word and how much God loves them. Share with them what God has done, and is doing, in your life.
This wife, mom and grandma is cheering you dads on today. Have a special day!