Father’s Day (06/16/24)

Today is Father’s Day. Today my mind has served up so many memories of my own father and of my husband, Ken, the father of our children. I am truly blessed because the two men in my life who bear the title “father” have been there for me and for my family.

When I think of “father,” I think of presence. I recall so many times my father was there to teach me through words or actions. I think of the times my father reached out to me in my moments of need. I think of my husband and how he cares for our children quietly but passionately.

Both men have also taught me a great deal about my heavenly Father, and for that I am most grateful. I will always remember my father telling me at the age of 3 that “God takes care of good people.” And when I was reeling spiritually because of a tragedy in my life and doubting that wisdom, it was him who taught me to meditate upon the cross and realize that God does take care of good people, but it doesn’t always look like what I think it should. It is because of him and his wisdom and example that I carry a pocket cross daily.

And it was my husband who taught me about the LORD’s love through his tears during the week of graduation for my first degree. When I asked him why he was crying, he said, “Because I just so want you to be all you are.” And in his words and love I suddenly understood better than ever before the love of the LORD and the LORD’s desire for me to be all He created me to be and all He gave His life so that I could be.

I am blessed in abundance. Today I know that. Today I pray for the fathers all over the world that they might allow the LORD to lead them in their fatherhood, in their accompaniment of their children, small and grown, and in loving those whom they’ve been given by our Heavenly Father to love well and love long.

Fatherhood is a vocation, it may begin in an instant, but true fatherhood requires a lifetime of sacrifices and love spent even when it appears unnoticed and unappreciated.

If you are a father, may the LORD bless you and guide you.

Love you, Dad. Love you, Ken.

Until tomorrow, may we all love well.