Father's Day 2012

Happy Father's Day!

What a wonderful day ...
I actually found myself wishing the LORD 'Happy Father's Day' several weeks ago. I am so thankful that He has been a Father to me and to my children. I am so blessed to have a personal relationship with the Creator of the universe. Some days, just the thought of that overwhelms me.

BIRTH DADS
The Word states that children are a blessing from the LORD ... happy is the man whose quiver is full of them (Ps. 127:3-5).' So much truth in those words. When I think about our world, I can't help but to reflect on the vital role that a father plays - creating a secure environment, providing wisdom/direction and helping children to establish there identity in the earth. It is such an important responsibility yet often goes without the recognition or respect that it truly deserves. You have the unique opportunity/privilege of giving a child their first sense of what is like to be in relationship with God the Father. I honor you fathers today!

CHOICE DADS
John 15:13 tells us, 'Greater love hath no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.' Outside of those men who are father's by birth, there is a another special group that deserves recognition today. There is an elite group of individuals out there and something must be done to acknowledge those who will lay down their lives daily to be a father to those with whom they have no biological connection. These elect group of gentlemen have made a concious decision to play a vital and effective role in the lives of young men and women. Despite the fact that they did not play a role in the birth of an individual, they assume the awesome responsibility of playing a role in the WORTH of an individual. They pour out their lives daily and they give glimpses of what it is like to be loved by GOD. So to all the step-fathers, pastors, mentor, teachers, coaches, foster dads and those who have adopted children as their very own - Thank you and God bless you!

MOM 'DADS'
Last, but certainly not least, I take time to acknowledge and celebrate the moms who have had to become dads. All across this earth, there are moms who work double-duty, donning the shoes of both father and mother. Some are in that position because they had children outside of marriage. Some find themselves in that position because of a divorce. Sadly many are in that place because of the death of a much-beloved father. And there are still others who temporarily have to assume that role while the actual father is away (defending a country or working in another location so that he can financially support his family). Whatever the reason, it is never easy to have to be both man and woman to children who are in need. It is a tremendous job - one that requires constant commitment, ingenuity, strength and selflessness ... and a ton of prayer. It is often an 'unsung' position (as is fatherhood in general). Yet those who are on the receiving end are blessed in ways that you can never fully know or appreciate. Do not grow weary in well doing for in due season you shall recognize and reap the fruit of all your labors. I speak blessings over you and pray that God would supply every need (spiritually, emotionally, physically, finacially and relationally)!

No matter who you are or how you came to assume the role of FATHER know that you make a difference!

Happy Father's Day ... Have a Blessed One!