“Happy Father’s Day”

“Father’s Day is a holiday of honoring fatherhood, as well as the influence of fathers in society. In Catholic countries of Europe, it has been celebrated on March 19 as Saint Joseph’s Day since the Middle Ages. In the United States, Father’s Day was founded by Sonara Smart Dodd, and celebrated on the third Sunday of June for the first time in 1910.”

The importance of fathers can’t be overstated. The father is called to care for his family…to lead, provide, and protect…to make a place where the family can flourish. When this is done well, the fruit is evident; when done poorly, the lack of fruit is also evident.

There are no perfect fathers, although St. Joseph came pretty close. Fathers can do a lot, but they can’t do it all. The wonderful love of a mother is certainly vital to every family. When a mother or father is missing in a family, thru death or absence, the family suffers. Heroic “single mothers or fathers” are certainly to be praised. My mother was a widow for 40 years and tried hard to fill the gap for the loss of my father…. she did great, but couldn’t do all.

So Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers. Be reminded of the importance of your role….. whether a new father or one who’s children are grown. Your role is so important. No father is perfect, but keep working on leading and providing and protecting your family. It’s not easy and we all fail at times, but don’t give up. The Lord will help us. The Lord will make up for our failings…only let’s not quit… let’s keep looking to love. As long as we’re still breathing, we have time to make a good impact on our family. The world desperately needs good fathers today.

Let me end with a prayer I used to say with my children at bedtime many years ago.

“I bless you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I pray that God would bless you and keep you.  I consecrate you to him and pray that he would bridge the gap between the love you’ve needed and the love you’ve received. I pray this is the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. You’re a very good girl / boy, and I love you very much. Amen.” 

So today, let’s say a prayer for our families. If we receive a new tie, be sure and smile and say thank you. And be sure and tell your children that you love them, and they are the best kids in the whole wide world. 

P.S. Oh, and don’t forget to thank your beautiful wife, whether still at your side or now in heaven, for all she has done to help you be a good father.