Dear Fathers, Grandfathers, and Future Fathers

This goes out to all the amazing guys out there, but especially to my dad and grandpa, both the best of the bunch (though I'm probably a bit biased). :) Happy Father's Day!

Dear fathers all over the world, thank you for all the times you love on your children, show them they're special, and take care of all their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. You are one of the most influential people in your children's life, so thank you for when you show them how to either be a good father and husband, or what to look for in a future husband. Thank you when you imitate your Father in heaven. As the leader of your household, treat your children with love (including discipline) and instruct them in the ways of the Lord. Proverbs 22:6 tells you to "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."

Dear grandfathers all over the world, thank you for spending time with your grandchildren, and raising your children to be Godly parents. You are an incredible role model and mentor to so many around you, whether your children, grandchildren, "adopted" children, or the neighbor down the street. Look for how God wants to use you in your community, and remember that each stage of your life is something special. Job 12:12 reminds you, "Wisdom is with the aged, and understanding in length of days."

Dear future fathers all over the world, thank you for the times you pray for your future wife and children. Thank you for putting effort now into being a good father and husband later. You are the next generation who will have the responsibility of determining the course of the world; this starts with your family. Thank you when you respect your parents and siblings, and put God first. Obey your parents now and learn all you can from them and any Godly elders around you. Never compromise on your beliefs; rather, rely on God to give you strength to do what is right as your fulfill your roles in the body of Christ. Honor all girls as your sisters in Christ. Second Timothy has lots of wisdom for you. "So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart." Proverbs 3:1 also instructs you: "My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments."

Dear fathers, grandfathers, and future fathers, "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." (1 Corinthians 16:13) Each of you has such important roles at all stages of your life. Don't dwell in the past, don't focus too much on the future, but enjoy where God has you right now. Never resent where you are, and pour your everything into being the man God has called you to be. Thank you for all the times you honor Him.

October: Pastor Appreciation Month

Before October is over, I want to bring to your attention that this month is Pastor Appreciation Month. Traditionally, members of a congregation show their gratitude to their pastor by doing something special. It could be bringing the family a meal, writing a note, or just making a point to say "thank you." Because my Dad is a pastor, I know firsthand how much work goes into preparing Sunday morning teachings, in addition to all the other in between meetings. Aside from teaching on Sunday, during the week pastors are preparing their hearts and messages for services or other activities like (as in my Dad's case) youth group, a men's meeting, and visiting those in the hospital or jail, or those who are facing difficult times. Pastoring is a full-time job. So much goes on behind the scenes that many people never find out about. They pick up the phone whenever it rings, and are constantly studying and preparing. Things come up spur of the moment that they have to attend to and in addition to having a full-time job, they are also on call. Many people assume that pastoring means simply getting up on Sunday and delivering a message, but it is SO MUCH MORE!

Next time that you see your pastor, youth leader, worship leaders, and other ministers, I encourage you to tell them "thank you." Show your gratitude by taking them a meal or sending a card. Over the years members of our congregation have done this for us, and it has truly been a blessing! Remember that it doesn't just have to be in October. So, to all the pastors out there, thank you!

Especially to you, Dad. . .
Thank you for taking your job seriously and remaining so dedicated. Thanks for being my pastor. . . even at home. I love you and want you to know that I am grateful to have you as my pastor, father, and youth leader. Thank you!