Father

Last Sunday was Father’s Day—a time to celebrate the dads, granddads, and father figures who have shaped our lives. I’m incredibly grateful that my children have a wonderful dad, and we took the weekend to celebrate him and all he means to our family.

I have to admit, though, that Father’s Day has never been a big deal for me personally. Growing up, my dad wasn’t around. My parents separated and divorced when I was young, and as a result, my relationship with my father—right up until his passing over 20 years ago—was distant at best.

When I became a Christian, some people assumed that because my earthly father relationship was strained, I must struggle to relate to God as Father. But honestly, nothing could be further from the truth.

There’s a moment after Jesus’ resurrection that has always spoken deeply to me. Jesus says to Mary, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” (John 20:17)

Those words still move me: “My Father and your Father.” Through Jesus, we are welcomed into a relationship with God as our own Father. From that moment on, no child is ever truly fatherless.

And in God’s great love, our Heavenly Father often places people in our lives to reflect His care and character. For some of you, that may have been your dad, or a grandfather, a coach, or a teacher. For me, it was an uncle who showed kindness and compassion when I was a child. And now, as an adult, God continues to reveal Himself through godly men and mentors in the church who guide and encourage me.

So even though Father’s Day may carry different meanings for each of us, I remain deeply thankful—for my Heavenly Father, and for all the men God has used to reflect His love in my life. I pray you can see those reflections in your life too.