I always felt sorry for my dad on father's day because he did not have a good father. My dad was born and raised in Wilmington by a mother of strong faith. She worked back to back nursing shifts to raise her children alone. My dad got his first job at eight years old, delivering papers. God sent men to guide and help him get scholarships for college. I wanted to meet my grandfather, not understanding that he was not interested. He was not a good father.
I do not remember Dad being angry or bitter. While he didn't have someone in the house to teach him how to be a father, he had someone teach him what not to be. Dad forgave his father like Joseph, forgave his brothers for their abuse. Genesis 50: 19-20, "But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Dad's faith was not built on perfect circumstances but persistence in the not so good circumstances. Dad had a Heavenly Father Who guided him in whatever life handed him. God used those difficult places in Dads life, to help him be a mentor until he died.
Pursue God in whatever your season of difficulty is. God knows it all whether it is sadness, anger, or a longing for your father’s affection. 1 Peter 5: 7, “Cast all your anxiety on him for he cares for you.” God is our loving Father Who heals our hurts and calls us His masterpiece. Like Dad, you have a Good, Good Father! Psalm 27: 10, "Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me." And God will never forsake us. Hebrews 13: 5, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." That's the kind of Father He is!
Happy Father's Day to the father(s) in your life. Even though I am sad, I have joy knowing we I will spend eternity with my Father and my father! Thanks be to Jesus!
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