A Salute to Fathers

Scripture Thought for the Week: A wise son heeds his fathers instruction Proverbs 13:1a; Listen to you father, who gave you life, Proverbs 23:22a; The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him. Proverbs 23:24
As I sit in my office contemplating what I might write about for this weeks devotional, I glanced over at my bookcase. Lined on the top shelf are numerous notebooks filled with material from previous speaking opportunities. As I read the binder label on each one, I am flooded with memories of hours spent at the computer, Bible in hand, talking with the Lord on how to proceed with each topic. Is there something particular God would have me pen this week for encouragement or comfort? Are there words of exhortation needed to be heard that the Holy Spirit will echo through this manuscript? Then I remembered, this is Fathers Day and the topic should reflect a salute to the men that God has blessed with the gift of children. There are two earthly fathers that come to mind that formed my opinions on fatherhood; my own dad and my late father-in-law. Both men grew up in different parts of the country, but both were raised in blue collar families with vigorous work ethics. My dad was the father of four; my father-in-law the father of five. Both men tried to squeeze every bit of juice from a dollar (mine still does), but each decided early on it was important to vacation one week in the summer where the money seemed a little freer to use. My father-in-law was raised Catholic; my dad Baptist. Both knew the importance of regular church attendance and raised their children accordingly. Both loved their children and sometimes had a difficult time demonstrating with words and actions that love. Transitioning to a more modern day dad is my husband; a unique combination of both of our fathers. Having a stellar reputation for work ethics, my husband has shown our kids that its important to be a good worker with regular attendance and be at your best everyday on the job. He has spent countless dollars on opportunities for our childrens growth both educationally, spiritually and emotionally with extracurricular sport activities; church camps; higher education and the benefit of relaxing family vacations. Regular church attendance hasnt been his only goal as he has led the way with a belief in Jesus Christ that transcends everything he is and does. He is a man of integrity and as

our son explained in a speech at his dads retirement, He is a master teacher and is the best man I know. There is no higher compliment. So on this Fathers Day I will no longer glance at the bookshelf, but rather at the individual sitting across the office typing away; my husband, the father of my kids and now a grandpa. I am truly thankful to have had these wonderful men in my life to demonstrate fatherhood and to lead the way for generations to come.

Thank you, Father God, for the gift of strong earthly fathers who have cared and provided for us. May we use the lessons we have been taught, by earthly fathers and our gracious heavenly Father, to become better parents and grandparents until you call us to our heavenly home. In Jesus name, Amen!