Happy Father’s Day!
Father’s Day originated in the United States in 1910, when Sonora Smart Dodd, a daughter of a Civil War veteran and single father of six, proposed it as a way to thank her father for his sacrifices. Father’s Day was first observed on June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington, with the support of local churches and the YMCA. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a law that made Father’s Day a permanent holiday on the third Sunday of June. Today, Father’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world with various traditions and customs. Fathers can have a positive impact on the well-being and development of their children, improving academic achievement, self-esteem, and social skills.
As Christians, we are triply blessed. We have the opportunity to have three fathers!
“Honor your father and mother” (which is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.”
Ephesians 6:2-3 BSB
Natural fathers are to be honored. That means to appreciate their value. If you have a father who has been a blessing to you, today is the day to emphasize his value. If not, don’t despair, there are two more options.
And because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, you are also an heir through God.
Galatians 4:6-7 BSB
When you gave your life to Jesus, a miracle occurred in your heart. You became a child of God. He is your Father, and He marked you as such by putting His Spirit in you. He is a very good Father and will continually work in you to bring about His best for you. Take time to say, “Thank You,” to your Heavenly Father.
For you know that we treated each of you as a father treats his own children— encouraging you, comforting you, and urging you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.
1 Thessalonians 2:11-12 BSB
Most of us have at least one person we would call a spiritual father, someone whose life has encouraged us in our personal walk with the Lord. These are men who speak truth into our lives and impart their lives to us, providing an example of a life dedicated to Christ. Take time to honor these men today.
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