Why I love being Dad.

Why I love being Dad.

There are so many men that walk away from the task of fathering.  Many reasons drive them.  Bad fathering may have left a strange taste in their mouth.  Conflicts with the mother become more than they want to overcome.  Feelings of inadequacy plague their thoughts.  Most just don't know what else to do.  They have come to the end of the road in their knowledge of fathering and just walk away confused.  Some have made mistakes they don't feel can be corrected or forgiven.

Any of these situations can be resolved. In fact, every father has to deal with each of these situations in some measure during his time as a father.  Any of these fathers can be positive influences in the lives of their children.  It may not be easy.  It may not be quick.  But it can move to a better place than where it is today with knowledge and with work.

So, why do I love being Dad?

Dad is not a name.  Dad is a title.  Dad is an appelation given from children with love.  Dad is a honor and calling greater than all given of God.

First, Dad is a calling of God.  The Father calls Himself Father.  Then he calls men to be fathers and carry His highest calling.  That is some calling.  Dads give children their first and many times most influential impression of the Father.  That is a huge responsibility and privilege.  It is the highest honor a person can be given.  I get to carry the Father's primary call and name.

Second, Dad is a solution.  At the close of the Old Testament, we are told that unless the heart of the father is turned to the child and the heart of the child is turned to the father, our land is cursed.  At the opening of the New Testament, we are told that John would come to again call the heart of the father to the child as an opening to the ministry of Jesus.  The curse of fatherlessness is abortion, divorce, broken families, drug abuse, and other social ills tied to the lack of a father's heart being for his child enough to make a difference.  Being a dad with a heart for his children is preventative maintenance to stop a curse.  Being a dad when the going gets rough is a solution to quicker life repair for a child.

Third, Dad is an honor earned.  When a child calls you Dad from deep in their heart of love, how can an honor be greater.  When they are young, they believe you are super man and can do no wrong.  Then they come of reasonable age and see your faults.  That can be a hard time to be a dad.  But, if you hold through and continue to love, they will come to a knowledgeable love for you that is stronger than that of the young.  As the children reach their own adult life, you continue to be Dad, but also get to be a friend and have a dual relationship.  Dad is an honor earned.

Fourth, Dad is a commission to the community.  A real Dad can take on a place in the community as a coach, mentor, and helper.  In my case, I have four adult children that have adopted me to serve them as Dad.  Every Dad has more capacity to love and nuture and care than he can ever give away.  The love of children restokes his capacity every day.  A real Dad can take time to influence through being a visible volunteer in some capacity.

Fifth, Dad is a lifetime.  A dad is a dad until he passes from this life to the next.  You never quit being a dad.  On your deathbed, you will still be Dad to your children.

Sixth, Dad leaves a legacy.  The Father tells us that the blessings of a father go four generations.  Wow.  Think of the power of being a dad.  Your blessings of love and care and creativity will persist into the future after you die.

So, this Father's Day, if you are a Dad, enjoy it.  If your Dad is still around, thank him and honor him.

I love being Dad.