Sunday, June 17, 2007

"Calling All Dads... or anybody willing!"

Today is Father's Day. I'm so grateful for a dad that taught me much, through his example, about a patient, faithful, and loving Father. Thanks Dad! You're my hero.

Now, on to a a rant. I know I'm doing a bit of a retread from this post, but I'm a little fired up, so here we go again...

In a conversation again today with a student who has been raised by his mom due to the fact that his dad left the marriage just before he was born. He's going to NYGO with us. He, like Brant, told me a big reason he's going is because he wants to learn how to effectively share his faith with his dad.

Maybe it's just Northern Indiana catching up to the rest of the U.S.A. but I'm blown away by the growing amount of fatherless students in our ministry. Many have left the home all together, while others are around, but seem to have merely served as sperm donors and source of income.

Now, I don't write this demean or belittle the efforts of moms who are stepping up and wearing every hat needed to parent a child. If you are mom in that boat (single or just doing it all)... standing ovation to you and what you're doing.

Now dads, or men in general... you looking for some purpose in your life? Here's a crazy thought, spend your life showing your kids an earthly glimpse of what a Heavenly Father is all about!!!
If you're kicking it out with your kids, and you're up for more, I've got a ton of students looking for a father figure. Let's talk.
If you aren't a dad, but you're passionate about Jesus and at a spot where you can play the role of a dad in the life of a fatherless generation... GO FOR IT!!!

This Father's Day, I'm praying for more Fathers!

Romans 8
15
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." 16The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. 17Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

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