Father’s Day

The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.

Psalms 103:13 (NLT)

About a week ago, as I’m writing this, we celebrated Father’s Day here in the USA. The third Sunday of June is a national recognition of the important role that fathers play in shaping the men and women we become. It’s a time when cheesy cards are given, neck ties, or other gifts are delivered, phone calls (or video calls) are made, all in an attempt to show our dads some gratitude for the effort they put into keeping us alive, raising us right, and generally helping us through life. As a man who had an amazing father in his life, I can attest to how powerfully his parenting and friendship has impacted my life – in ways I never could have imagined as a child. Though he died when I was 20, the amount of love and support he provided in those formative years have profoundly shaped me, even today.

However, these types of holidays can be a double-edged sword. For those who had a loving, supportive father growing up, it’s a time of celebration. But, for those who did not, it’s just another Sunday. For some, even, it’s a reminder that they missed out on something in life.

Regardless of whether or not you grew up, or are growing up, with a real human father in your life, know that we each have one, true Father – God. In fact, none of us would exist without this Father. He created the universe so we could exist (see previous devo). He knitted you together in you mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13). In fact, He was the one who made your birth possible by creating your very own blueprint before you were ever conceived (Psalm 139:16). And, He’s been cheering you on ever since. His love for you is unparalleled. His mercy and compassion was on full display as He died in your place on the cross. In short, this Father has been by your side since day one of your life. As the psalmist said in our verse today, “The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.”

Family, today, and every day, remember that you have a real, eternal father who deeply loves you and will never leave your side. But, let’s not celebrate that fact once per year. Give thanks to God today for the amazing father he is, and always will be.