The words “It’s Father’s Day” can conjure a lot of mental images, depending on that person’s perception of fathers. I have always struggled sharing a message on Father’s Day. It is partly because I really miss my dad who died when I was 15, so fathers day is a difficult day for me. It is also because I have some dear friends who have never had a positive father figure. For those friends, Father’s Day is looked at with contempt and dread. It is hands down their least favourite day of the year. My heart goes out to those friends. Whether it is living in poverty or not finishing high school, it is incredible the difference it makes to have a father figure or not having a father figure for a child growing up.

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Kids who do have their dad at home do better at school, work and life. They are more emotionally stable. When they marry, they tend to have stronger marriages.  And they can relate to a loving God more easily.

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Like many other special days, Father’s Day has become highly commercialized. In 2015 $12.7 billion was spent on Father’s Day gifts in the United States. As a father, it is always nice to be recognised. But it does not have to be monetary. A “thank you dad’ and “I love you dad” has a way of sending my spirits soaring, more than any present can.

Hard to believe this little guys is 2 inches taller than me. They grow up so fast. One day you are holding them in your arms, and before you know it, you are looking up to them. He is now 6’6″ and wears a size 15 shoe! 🙂

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For those who have not had a good father figure, it is difficult to picture God as loving. There is so much in the Bible that refers to God as a heavenly Father.  It was Jesus’s favourite title for God, mentioned 165 times.  And God the Father calls us His children. God the Father is the source and protector of all life and goodness. And what he would to hear more than anything is “thank you” and “I love you”. If you have had a great relationship with your earthly dad, please take the time to honour him on father’s day. I missed taking the time to do that, then he was gone. I have always regretted it.

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If my own dad were living, he would currently be 92. I have only known my dad for 25% of my life, and have wished he were around these last 45 years to say “Thank You” and “I Love You”. I am very fortunate to have those 15 years with my dad. During my days of missing my dad, God has been my source of strength. He has promised to stay with me forever. We are so valuable to God. He cares for every detail in our lives. He loves us so much!

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