Sunday is Father’s Day. A day set aside as a nation to honor our fathers. Christian pastor and author Max Lucado describes it this way in his book God Came Near. “Father’s Day. A day of cologne. A day of hugs, new neckties, long-distance phone calls, and Hallmark cards. My father didn’t do anything unusual. He only did what dads are supposed to do – be there.”

Father’s Day is a bittersweet day for me and maybe for you, as well. I was blessed to have a wonderful Dad who loved God, Mom, my sister Valerie and me and every other person he ever met. He had bright blue eyes, strong arms and a firm handshake. He taught me to “always look a man in the eye and give him a firm handshake when you greet another man.” He showed me how to ride a bike, tie a necktie - with help from the Cub Scout book, make a Pinewood Derby race car, change the oil in my car, throw a ball, grow a garden, swing a golf club(though not very well!) and how to treat women with respect. I watched him express his love for his bride with words, hugs, affection and practical acts of love. He was and is an important role model in my life, though I’ve been without his physical presence for 21 years now. I miss the chance to talk with him, but as a Christian I know I’ll have that opportunity again one day when he’ll greet me again with a firm handshake and a hug and say, ”Welcome Home, Son.” I expect I’ll have two Fathers extending a welcoming hand and open hug on that day.

If you’re blessed to still have your earthly father, I pray you’ll take the opportunity to express your love to him in a meaningful way this weekend. If you never knew your Dad or he’s been gone awhile – physically or emotionally – try to spend some extra time with your Heavenly Father this weekend. As max Lucado says, “He does what good dads are supposed to do – be there.” He says to each of us, “Never will I leave; never will I forsake you.” That’s a wonderful promise and we’re blessed to have a father who keeps His promises – every one.

We’ll be passing out a “sweet gift” to all Dads present this Sunday from our First Church Kids. We love our Dads!

See you Sunday! Remember I begin our new summer series on the book of Philippians this week, “Enjoying the People in your Life!” I thank God for His Word and for you!

Yours in Christ,
Mark

P.S. “There’s No Place Like Rome” – our 2009 Vacation Bible School begins this Monday night at 6:00pm and runs nightly through Thursday. Invite a child or two in your neighborhood or a grandchild to join us for this exciting week! Blessings!