I am thankful for the example that my Dad lived before me and also for the man of character that I married. It’s important that we honor the men in our lives who live lives of integrity, compassion and wisdom. They are to be appreciated and valued.
A father’s love – tender-hearted, kind, forgiving, filled with compassion!
My father was strict but I knew he always loved me – he insisted I work hard, be respectful, do my best in everything. We worked hard but we played hard – enjoying fishing and hunting but there was never enough time to spend with him. My heavenly Father is the one who gave my earthly father those characteristics.
We don’t always see what our father, heavenly or earthly, is doing while we are in the midst of a situation. However, when we know our father, we know his motives and intentions are based on his love for us and we can trust him. They mold our character and are our examples of strength.
Even when we take off and manage to get ourselves in troublesome situations he is there. He watches and waits, He doesn’t come to “drag” us back but when we return He is overjoyed.
I guess the best gift we could give either our earthly or our heavenly Father is to come home. Ask for His forgiveness and be reconciled in our relationship.
“I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” Luke 15:18-24 NIV
If your earthy father is still living remind him how special you feel he is and thank him for loving you. Also take time to thank your heavenly Father for His unconditional love, his unwavering support and for never giving up on you.