John Wakeman is pastor of Greenfield Faith Church.
Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers and father figures. You have a very important role to play in the young lives God has entrusted you with. For a little fun, here is a top ten list of things a dad will never say:
10. Well how about that! I’m lost!
9. I think I will stop and ask for directions.
8. I noticed that all your friends have a certain negative attitude. I like that!
7. Here is a credit card and the keys to my car. Stay out as long as you want.
6. What do you mean you want to play football, son? Figure skating is not good enough for you?
5. You know, sweetie, now that you are 13, you are ready for unchaperoned car dates. Won’t that be fun?
4. Your mother and I are going away for the weekend. You might want to consider throwing a party.
3. No son of mine is going through life without an earring. Let’s go get one at the mall today.
2. Don’t worry about going out and getting a job. You can just let me continue to provide for you.
And the No. 1 thing you will never hear a Dad say: Father’s Day? “Ah, don’t worry about it, its no big deal.”
Well, Father’s Day is a big deal, especially when we recognize fathers who seek to live their lives guided by Christ’s love and Christ’s commands. Fathers, and mothers, are very important in God’s plans for us. But a father’s role — to instruct and teach his children — takes on added importance, as he prepares them for life, and leads them to come to know Jesus as their Savior.
Fathers need to give their children their blessing of love. Children need to receive their father’s blessing. They need to hear these affirming words coming from a father: “You are special, you are terrific, you belong to me and I love you.”
This is so important. If you get nothing else out of this column, remember to give your blessing. Don’t assume your children know how you feel about them. You must speak the words, “You’re special, you’re terrific, you’re mine and I love you.”
Your children need to hear these words. Show affection and nurture your children regardless of how old they are. It is never too late to start doing the right thing.
So, let’s thank God for good Christian fathers. They are truly a gift from God. And let’s look for ways to help and encourage fathers in their very important work, not only on Father’s Day, but throughout the year.
If you are a father, or a grandfather, stay connected to God for wisdom and guidance. Give your children your blessing. Don’t hold back. Trust God to help you carry out your most important duty as a father: to lead your children to Christ. Nothing else you could do will have the eternal benefits that a saving faith in Jesus will bring.
Happy Father’s Day!
John Wakeman is pastor of Greenfield Faith Church. This weekly column is written by local clergy members.
