A few years ago, while preparing a sermon for Father’s Day, a friend mentioned to me that Mother’s Day is always filled with accolades from the pastor about how wonderful mothers are, while Father’s Day commonly elicits a list of ways that fathers need to improve their parenting.

Pretty good insight :)

His observation also touched on something we all know: fathers and mothers are different.  That nature is from the LORD.  Pastors often lean that way in their teaching (whether it’s right or not) because of that design.  I always noticed the difference in my home.  I never made much of holidays as I moved into my “I know everything” college years (sort of thought they were silly).  My dad could care less if I forgot his birthday or Father’s Day.  But you could guarantee that if I didn’t have a call or card to my mother before 2 PM on any special day of hers, my dad was usually on the phone telling me, “You better pick up the phone and call the woman who brought you into this world and spent years making meals for you.  Got it?”  It still makes me smile (in a good way).

God has called fathers to lead, provide, and protect their families with a firm, sacrificial love and has equipped them for that task.  For most fathers, that has meant long hours of work, in addition to all the duties which are demanded within the four walls of their homes.  Our fathers were no different.  Dad, Ted…thanks for all that you’ve done and sacrificed for us.  Sonja and I love you and thank God for you.  We hope you have a special Father’s Day.

PS….On a personal note, Sonja notified the kids at the supper table tonight that it was Father’s Day.  They promptly found two caramels for me to suck on and then prayed for me.  Being a father is great!