on Father's Day

Father's Day for 2016 is over, and for many fathers across the country they were blessed with handmade cards from their children, breakfast in bed, several hugs and kisses, and even some dads received some cool new "toys" to play with. But, it is important as Father's Day reminds us every year to look at theologically the role that "fathers" play in our lives. So, let's dive in!
1) God is labeled as our Heavenly Father.
Many times in the scriptures God is referred to as our Father. This is important because many people growing up having their earthly fathers either absent or repeatedly disappointing them. The good news is God is the Father that always shows up, always keeps his promises, and never disappoints. All earthly fathers are important, and they are intended to point their families to know and grow closer to their Heavenly Father.

One of the most clear examples of God being our Heavenly Father is found in the opening line of the Lord's prayer. "Our Father who art in Heaven. . ." While sin mars ability to be fully connected with our Heavenly father the day is coming when sin will be no more and we are once again united with Him. God is the perfect Father, and we are all His children. While the Father label is often attributed to God, I do want to say that we serve a God who is far greater than any one label or title. The label mother is used far less than father is used to describe God and is not found in the scriptures (Important note). But, God does tenderly care for the children and people of this earth in similar ways that mothers care for their young ones. Let me conclude this point by saying: I won't refer to God our Mother, but I do recognize that God is greater than just a male pronoun that we so often apply.

2) Fathers teach how to be strong, honest, loving, and humble.
As a father myself I realize the amount of teaching moments at this point in my daughter's and soon to be son's life are immense. However, I fully realize there will come a day when I blink and realize not that my teaching is ever finished but rather it has taken on a different form/style. So, some of the best lessons come from my father come from the word of God.
1) Christians should be strong: (Behold I am sending you out amongst the wolves, be wise as serpents but innocent as doves.) This world is very hard and becoming increasingly more challenging. Teach your children or children you are close to how to be strong and stand up for their beliefs and the word of God.
2) Honest (Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor) One of the best ways to rock this world for Jesus Christ is for all believers to be 100% honest and genuine in the good and bad moments of life.
3) Loving (Love one another as I have loved you) Unconditional love is one of the biggest themes in the entire Bible. Learn how to love people in all circumstances.
4) Humble/Meek (Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth) Martin Luther King Jr. said this amazing quote that everyone can be great because everyone can serve someone else. Serving others takes many forms, and I hope you begin praying, "God bring me someone who I can serve today." But, one piece of advice I was given, "Never be too proud to say, 'I love you,' 'I'm sorry,' 'I forgive you'."