I can remember receiving a phone call from our adoption case manager with the news that we were going to be able to adopt our very first child. Her exact words, “Are you ready to be a Dad?”. I could never have imagined that our lives were going to be changed forever. Being a father is one of the greatest joys and blessings of my life. Thank God, my children have an amazing Mom who helps me in this role of fatherhood.
I have been blessed in my life by my own father who has shown me what a Dad’s responsibilities are in this life. My Dad was a wonderful provider and protector. He showed me a great work ethic and how to treat everyone with dignity and respect. He was a man that showed us that we need to listen and respect the wisdom of Mom, and through his love in marriage, showed us how to make sure we honor our spouses today. My father also had a great respect for the gift of faith and family and wanted those two values protected at all costs. He taught everything to me that he learned from his father. We are so blessed by that love.
Bible Verses about a father’s role in the family is a pivotal one. He is called upon to be aleader and protector for the family, and to give an example of Christ’s love by being loving towards the children’s mother. He is also to be strong in the faith, and to bring the children up knowing right from wrong. He is to look at the children not so much as a responsibility, but as a privilege and blessing from God (Psalm 127).
I have been blessed with four children and a loving wife. I look at them growing up and I am so thankful to God for what they are becoming. I hope and pray that as a Dad I have shared some wisdom and love along the way that continues to grow within them. I hope that my children know they always have someone in their corner no matter what. I hope they continue to learn and grow in the gift of faith. I hope they always know what is means to be respectful and loving to all people. I hope most importantly that they always know the Heavenly Father’s love for them.
To all you fathers I say thank you for your inspiration and love. May we always know what a privilege it is to raise our children in the spirit and love of God. Today we say thanks to all the men who said yes to this calling. May all the Dads be blessed as they carry on this important role as FATHER. I wish you all a very HAPPY and blessed Father’s Day.
A Prayer for Christian Fathers
Heavenly Father,
you entrusted your Son Jesus,
the child of Mary,
to the care of Joseph, an earthly father.
Bless all fathers
as they care for their families.
Give them strength and wisdom,
tenderness and patience;
support them in the work they must do,
protecting those who look to them,
as we look to you for love and salvation,
through Jesus Christ our rock and defender.
Amen.