Father's day 2021

Father's Day is a great day for a lot of people. Fun & celebrations to honor a man who, though imperfect, is worthy of honor and respect. For some, Father's Day is observed from a broken heart that loves, in spite of the pain of a strained relationship. Others ... they are grieving on Father's Day because they no longer have their father here with them. No words to be ever spoken again. No chance to mend that which needs to be mended. And still others trudge through Father's Day feeling not needed, unwanted ... and, maybe, unloved. Father's Day can be quite traumatic for many who fit in a variety of these categories. 

We are all in one - or more - of these categories. BUT the one characteristic we have in common, if we're a child of God, is that these fallible men around us are but dust ... imperfect in every way, as we ourselves are ... and they ALL can serve as a beacon of light to the only perfect Father ... God. 

The only Father who deserves ultimate praise.
The Father who stops at nothing to restore the relationship with us, even when we resist Him.
He's the only Father who will never die. The only Father who can't die. He, eternally, speaks words of life and hope and love, even when we stray.
The Father who understands our pain, our trust issues and the father wound plaguing our soul, reminding us that He's like none other. He speaks. He is gentle with our hearts, for He knows we are but dust. After all, He created us. 

For one who dreads Father's Day every year, I'm learning that God the Father knows me better than I know myself. This Father's Day weekend is no different. The reality is this is a tough weekend. As I was cleaning today (6/19/2021), a sweet friend showed up ... reminding me of what I already knew logically ... that my Heavenly Father hasn't rejected me. He longs for me to grow deeper in my trust and love for Him, even when I don't understand what He's doing or allowing. He hasn't pushed me away. What a gift from my Heavenly Father!

Whether your father is the ideal father or not, whether he's the hero or the villain of your life, whether he's living or not, my prayer is that you will focus your eyes and heart upon God the Father. 

Even as I write this, I know there are fathers/grandfathers who are hurting due to relationship issues/changes. If you're that person reading this, God the Father understands your pain as well. I pray you will find your ultimate comfort and hope in the only One who can meet you there in that pain ... God the Father.

To the fathers who love Jesus and who strive to represent God the Father well to your families and to those you encounter, thank you!!! I hope you have a great Father's Day! 

More than anyone else, though ... to the one Father whose never been far away these 39 years even when I chose to ignore You, thank You for being faithful! Thank You for loving me - and all of us - so much that You sent Jesus to redeem all who call upon Your name. Thank You for meeting me behind the lens of my camera. I enjoy our walks! You're a good, good Father!