By Faith Hakesley
This Sunday we remember fathers. Let’s face it, families, fathers, and fatherhood are under attack in today’s culture. Fathers are important. Some people want to believe that we don’t need good dads. Yet, time and time again, we have seen the dire results of fatherless homes. We see what happens when men refuse to step up into their roles of “dad” and shirk in their duties to their wives and children. Fatherlessness has become an epidemic. Many people see it as “normal” in our culture, but it is anything but normal. Having a good father/father figure in anyone’s life can make all the difference.
Fathers are Worth Celebrating
Basic biology tells us that, while we obviously wouldn’t be here without our mothers, we certainly wouldn’t be here without our fathers too. Yes, contrary to popular belief, it really does take “two to tango.” We see men reduced to no more than sperm donors, but we know that fathers are much, much more.
Fathers are our leaders. When they lead their families with Godly strength, wisdom, and humility that comes from a relationship with Christ, they build a family grounded in love and respect. A dad’s example and words can be powerful, even life changing. They show their children an example of Christ-like love by how they care for and treat their wives. Fathers also guide, challenge, protect, and sacrifice. Yes, of course mothers do all of those things too, but God designed men especially to have a special influence over their families. Fatherhood is indeed a sacred gift.
For some people, Father’s Day is a joyful day, a day to celebrate. For others, it’s a painful reminder of what wasn’t or of what could have been. The absence of a father whether through death, divorce, or any other reason, leaves a deep wound. The same is true for a father who was abusive, emotionally absent, etc. The negative effects of growing up without a father (or with a bad father) creates a ripple effect that can last for generations. There is a father problem in our culture. We suffer from a lack of fathers who are willing to step up. Many fathers are setting a bad example for their children. Leftists have a tendency to ignore the “good guys” or label them as “toxic” even though these fathers are honest, capable, and responsible.
Men, be Secure in Your Strength and the Lord’s
No one is perfect. However, no man’s imperfections should stop him from striving to be the best father he can be. All men should do their utmost to gently but firmly lead, protect, and defend. A man doesn’t have to be physically intimidating in order to be “a real man.” Although physical strength is a gift, the ability to control that strength and use it for good is even better. A man’s mental and spiritual strength and ability to govern their gentleness can be life-giving and change the world.
Dads, you are Seen and Loved
To dads in the thick of fatherhood who are working to support and raise God-fearing children, you are seen and loved.
To dads who are expecting the arrival of a new baby, you are seen and loved.
To dads who have suffered the loss of a child at any stage of life, during pregnancy or beyond, you are seen and loved.
To men who are spiritual leaders, you are seen and loved.
To dads who live with the regret of abortion, whether you were supportive of it or not, you are seen and loved.
To men who are caregivers or father figures to others, you are seen and loved.
To men who wish and pray to be husbands and fathers, you are seen and loved.
To men who are struggling with fertility issues, you are seen and loved.
To men who have lost their fathers, you are seen and loved.
To fathers who are trying to be better dads than their own fathers were, you are seen and loved.
To fathers who are doing their best to break generational traumas, you are seen and loved.
To men who have a strained relationship with their fathers, you are seen and loved.
To fathers who have a strained relationship with their children, you are seen and loved.
Whether you are celebrating Father’s Day, or experiencing a combination of joy and grief, you are seen and loved today and always.
There is Hope, Mercy, and Forgiveness
For any fathers out there struggling to come to grips with broken relationships with your children or are facing past regrets, there is always hope. By the grace of God, there is forgiveness and mercy. Even if your opportunity has passed (for whatever reason) to have a good, solid relationship with your child/children, you can still pray for them. That in and of itself is a gift you can offer for your children.
For anyone struggling this Father’s Day, I am so sorry for your pain. If you have suffered the loss of a father or the lack of a good one, I encourage you to find healing in our Heavenly Father. Regardless of your circumstances, a relationship with Christ is life-changing!
Let’s take some time to honor fathers for the vital role they play in our culture and in our families.