One of the many things I look forward to in our adoption journey is getting to see my husband, Michael, become a father. He is such a thoughtful, fun, and loving human being, and I have no doubt he will be an incredible father to our kiddos someday. Considering the father that Michael will be reminds me of how incredible my own father has been.
Growing up, my dad was always there for my basketball games, told me and my siblings that he loved us, and was a calm and steady presence during the emotional teen years. Dad’s example as a hard worker who prioritized the right things, like reading the Bible and investing in family, has had more impact on my life than I earlier recognized.
As we reflect on father’s day, here are three things to consider as we plan on honoring the father figures in our life:
1. Fathers are important.
God created the first family through Adam and Eve, and his design included both a father and a mother. (Genesis 1-5) The role of a father is different than a mother, and social sciences have shown the significance of children having a healthy relationship with their father (or father figure). Fathers have an important and irreplaceable role in their children’s lives, even from the earliest moments.
2. Fathers aren’t dummies.
Have you ever noticed pop-culture’s portrayal of fatherhood can tend to communicate that fathers are clueless? A few popular examples that come to mind are television shows like Arrested Development and Family Guy. It is important to not let this cultural perception bleed into our own perception of men’s abilities as fathers. This stereotype is unhelpful, and doesn’t represent the many amazing fathers out there that are partnering with their spouse, showing up, learning how to parent well, and leading their family.
3. God as Father.
Finally, I recognize that there are many that may have complex feelings surrounding their father and Father’s Day. Because of brokenness in our world brought on by sin, many may have a difficult or painful relationship with their father, or have a father who is absent either physically or emotionally. And there are also those who may have lost their father. Father’s Day can bring an unwanted reminder of such painful emotions. But we can find comfort in God as our perfect heavenly Father who is always present, and loves unconditionally.
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. —James 1:17
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! . —1 John 3:1
As we celebrate Fathers day, let’s be grateful for the fathers that have impacted us. That may be your biological father, but it may also be spiritual fathers who have invested in you. Whoever falls into the category of “father” for you—reach out and let them know how they’ve made a difference in your life!
Meet the author!
Lauren McAfee is Corporate Ambassador for Hobby Lobby and PhD student in Christian Ethics and Public Policy. She grew up in Oklahoma City and loves her church community at CRBC. Lauren and her high school sweetheart, Michael McAfee, have been married for over eight years.
