FATHER vs. DAD!
I have often said that anyone can be a 'father' but it takes someone special to be a Dad. Being a "father" is basically a biological term, while being a "dad" is so much more. A Dad is engaged with his children. He is emotionally supportive, listens, and is there for his children. And a Dad loves his children's Mom. I have often told my children that one of my goals in life is to embarrass them by loving them and their Mom - sincerely but obnoxiously. A most recent example is this past week when Patti and I went to Bonnaroo to hear and support our daughter, Becca, and her band, Angel Saint Queen. Patti made signs that said "I love Angel Saint Queen!". We got to the venue early, positioned ourselves near the middle of the front. When they came out to sound check, we held our signs high, and I yelled as loud as I could "Yeah! I LOVE ANGEL SAINT QUEEN!!" Becca grinned really big and then gave a shout out to her parents. I was proud (still am)! Instead of being embarrassed, she embraced the love and support that we not only talk about but show! And her friends thought it was "cool and cute" that her parents were there - loud and proud.
I LOVE BEING A DAD!! That and being "Mr. Patti" are my greatest joys! And I am so thankful that I have an extremely positive, solid role model in my Dad. My wife paid the strongest compliment that anyone could pay on anyone when she told a group of Centrifuge summer camp staffers that she thought the most "Christ-like" person that she had ever met was my Dad. At first I was surprised - my Dad!?! Then as I thought about how she described him, and what a great Dad he had been (and still is), I actually agreed with her. So thanks Dad, now Granddaddy, for being You!! You are so deeply loved, and I am so blessed and proud to be your son!
My Mom & Dad - Leon, Big "L", Granddaddy!
Our Heavenly Father is the ultimate example of what being a Dad is all about. Unconditional love, patience, persistence, and so much more. He gives us so many great examples throughout the Bible - one of course being the parable of "the Lost or Prodigal Son". Like so many of us, including me, the son was spoiled, selfish, not too smart but thought he was, and was ready to get out of the house and "live". He lived alright! Recklessly squandering and doing what he selfishly wanted. It was not long before he lost everything. He was down to nothing! With fear, embarrassment, and much humility, he decided to go home. Upon his return home, the scriptures tell us he found his father waiting for him. His Dad ran out to meet him and then he threw a huge celebration in his son's honor. The son was embarrassed and genuinely sorrowful. He was ready to be a hired hand. But his Daddy saw differently. He loved him unconditionally and welcomed him home with forgiveness, love, and open arms. For once his son was lost, but now he was found.
Such is our Heavenly Father, the ultimate Daddy! It does not matter if you have just a "father" or you're lucky like me and have a "dad", either way, our Heavenly Dad is waiting to welcome each one of us. And when He does, the Celebration is Big...Real Big!!
Gentlemen, be a Dad. Follow the example set for us. Love your children and their Mom so much that they are embarrassed. I promise one day you will get a proud shout out!
This Sunday we will take a look at the Fruit of the Spirit of Gentleness. What perfect timing on Father's (Daddy) Day! I hope to see you at FCC. And Always Rememember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
The Castle Crew that makes me proud to be a Dad!