Honoring Our Father

The music of Third Day filled the sanctuary. A small blonde-haired boy, gripped a tambourine -- one almost as big as he was -- in a chunky hand, struggling to beat it with his other plump little fist. My heart was full: this young child, eyes wide and ears captivated by praise and worship music, wanting earnestly to imitate those around him. Each week he named the people he would see as we took the short ride to church; each week he stood next to me, scanning the room and listening. These people had become his family: the impressive man who stood at the back, greeting guests and keeping watch over "the flock;" the sassy pinochle player whose smile could light up any room she entered; the teens and the seniors alike; the "Bible study ladies;" and the curmudgeon with the heart of gold, who beamed each time the little boy smiled his way. But the pastor? The pastor had made a special impact on this little one, and this Sunday, Father's Day, the toddler was eager to show it. Somewhere between verses, he left my side and went to be with his friend and guide. The pastor, on seeing this little lamb striding toward him, broke into a smile, immediately sat down so as to be more to the youngster's level, and scooped him up into his lap. The toddler flashed me a look as if to say, "Look here. Look who I know. This shepherd, in the midst of his work, stops for me; he adores me so."

What a poignant image of who our Heavenly Father is! And what an encouraging image of all that should be our response to His love! "Look here. Look who I know. This Shepherd, in the midst of His work, stops for me; He adores me so!"

As we honor our earthly fathers today, as we honor those who have assumed the role of provider, mentor, confidant and counselor, let's fix our eyes on the One who has given them that great responsibility to bear, and upholds them in their industry. Thank God for those He has placed in our lives to demonstrate His great love and care for us.

Happy Father's Day!