A Real Father's Love

Webster and Wikipedia define a father as the male parent. The verb “father” simply means to procreate. I am sure you have your own definition of what the word “father” means to you whether you physically have a father in your life or not. Some may say that father means protector, the family leader, or the sense of security in the home. Some may have negative experiences and feel that a father is a “dead-beat,” “abandoner,” or an “abuser.” Let’s look at some examples and see what the Bible says about fathers.

A Father’s love is forgiving

Luke 15:11-32, tells a well known father and son story, one often referred to as, “the prodigal son.” When his youngest son prematurely leaves home and squanders his inheritance, this father shows true forgiveness. He not only welcomes his wayward son home, he rejoices at the sons return. No doubt he must have remembered himself as a young man making hasty decisions and silly mistakes. So instead of holding his mistakes over his head this father welcome’s his son back with open arms.

A father’s love is faithful and goes the extra mile!

John 4:46-53, shares a story of a nobleman with an ailing son. Knowing his son is near death, this father travels miles to Galilee seeking Jesus’ help. Once the devoted father arrives he asks Jesus to return home with him and heal his son. In verse 53 Jesus simply says, “Your son lives.” Taking Jesus at His word the faithful father does not question he just obeys. As he journeys home the nobleman is met by one of his servant who informs him that his son was indeed healed the day before at the very hour he had believed.

These are just two; however the Bible and the world are filled with examples of loving, faithful, and protective fathers. So as we celebrate them this month thank your Heavenly Father for His undying love and do something special for your earthly one.

Think about it!