Thinking about Dad's on Father's Day

This Sunday June 21st will be Father's Day and I find myself reflecting on my relationship with my Dad and my Father-in-law. Two men that have shaped me into the man that I have become. It is an awesome responsibility to be a dad as I think of the impact we have as Father's.

When I was little guy I remember my Dad as a stern disciplinarian. The words "wait till your father gets home" rang home to me... and I remember seeing my Dad being moved to tears by God and watching God change his life when I was a young teenager. From the time that he sang (what I think was his first solo ever) in the church cantata, to times of praying in the men's bible study to experiencing and participating with Dad worshiping God in a Sunday service, he has been an influence in my life.

When I met Brenda's dad I was intimidated. A Pastor, a strong man, with real passion for God and the things of God. I always wanted to be on my best behavior with Brenda! I will never forget one of my first encounters watching ESPN (Baseball, his favorite sport) and a commercial came on and he changed the channel, turned to me and said, "I don't like watching the commercials and having those thoughts/images in my mind"! What an example of taking captive every thought and not letting the world influence you. Another influence in my life.

So here I am with two kids whom I love and adore and it's now my time to model for them the love of God the Father. And then to demonstrate what it means to love and to discipline in the love of God in order to raise them to love the Lord with all their heart, mind and soul. I am so thankful for both the models that God gave me in my earthly fathers.

So on Father's Day, tell your dad what he means to you.... Dad I love you and I thank you for showing me how to turn my life over to God so that I can love my wife and my kids the way God wants me to love.

Thanks Dad!

Pastor John