Marriner’s Moment: Fearless Fathers With Faith – Pt. 2

During June, we honor and celebrate fathers and surrogates fathers. I sometimes chide my congregation about the fact that mothers are celebrated, and wined and dined on Mother’s Day, but fathers get the short end of the stick. While mothers are showered with gifts of love and accolades, fathers get a necktie – maybe! Joking aside, as the father of four boys, I can tell you that my heart swells with pride knowing that I played an active role in their lives. Watching them grow up to become responsible adults, finding and responding to their life’s purpose, and witnessing them blossom into caring, responsible young men, warms my heart and is a gift from God.

It’s unfortunate that some of our young men (and women), will never know the love of their fathers – for whatever reason. But, there is good news! When we give our lives over to Christ, each of us can experience the unconditional love of our Heavenly Father! Earthly fathers are important, but each of us has the opportunity to know Christ – the heavenly Father – and the greatest love of all.

Few events change a man’s life as much as becoming a father – be it biological or through surrogacy. The awesome responsibility of parenting a child and being entrusted to care for another individual is a daunting but rewarding task. I can assure you though, that there is no greater joy than seeing your children grow into adulthood, and having them return the love that you have shown them in good measure.

To all the men who are biological fathers, or who have stepped up and stepped in to take the places of fathers, I salute you and thank you! You are an important part of your child’s life. I encourage you to continue to press forward, guided by God’s grace and love.

”Peace and power.

© Dr. Melvin O. Marriner,
Grove Church
June 2017