Keith Cox
Today is about giving thanks for our dads. On this special day, I truly believe we are to give thanks and to honor our dads. Exodus 20:12, “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
I also realize that today can be very difficult for many individuals. For some, this is their very first Father’s Day without their dad. My last Father’s Day with my dad was June 21, 2020. For some, this day is extremely difficult because there are some fathers who have had a son or daughter pass away. There are some who placed their child for adoption which makes this day very difficult. There are some who had a dad that was very abusive (physically, mentally and emotionally) and that individual definitely does not want to give thanks or honor to their father. There are several men who were unable to have children so today can also be very hard. For some, they live very far away from their fathers and they are not able to spend this day together which also can be very hard.
It is important to know that no matter the type of Earthly Father we had, we each have a Heavenly Father who cares deeply for us. – Psalm 103:13
The same way a loving father feels toward his children – that’s but a sample of your tender feelings toward us, your beloved children, who live in awe of you. – Psalm 103:13 (The Passion Translation)
“Girls that are adored and loved are more likely to develop healthy and positive relationships in adulthood. Boys who are loved are taught how to love and to perpetuate strength that is controlled and careful. Like a shepherd, a father cares for his flock – feeding, protecting, leading, being available and having a watchful eye.” (Share Faith Magazine) – 3 John 1:4
It is the greatest joy of my life to hear that my children are consistently living their lives in the ways of truth! – 3 John 1:4 (The Passion Translation)
“Decisions made today will affect the future of your child, even if they are made shortsightedly. They will bring you pain or bring you glory. The purpose of parenting is to leave a biblical legacy. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 talks about the legacy of God’s law by exhorting you to first commit wholeheartedly to the commandments of God, then repeat them again and again to your children. You as a father have a distinct and important role in the lives and futures of your little ones.” (Share Faith Magazine)
It is important to give thanks to those fathers, grandfathers, uncles, father-in-laws and other men who made a difference in your life this Father’s Day.
Keith Cox is the pastor of Clarkesville First United Methodist Church.