Lighting the Path (Fathers)

As we prepare for my son to “leave the nest” in a couple months (Update: He is now through his third year of college with our next son having completed his first year.), I find myself wondering about the path he will take:

Where God will lead him. What kind of career he will have. Who he will touch with his life.

And as Father’s Day approaches, for the first time  I look at my boy-turned-man and wonder what kind of father he will be if so blessed. I pray he will shower his children with love and guidance. Teach them that to really live they must die to themselves.

My son’s path is lit by strong godly men who demonstrate fatherhood: his grandfathers, definitely, but most importantly his dad, my hubby:

My husband loves his children fiercely. His heart breaks when they hurt and rejoices when they triumph.

He strives to provide them with safety, comfort, and happiness.

My husband has carried our children when needed, held their hands during scary times, and never hesitates to share his love for them.

He teaches, instructs, and encourages.

He’s shared tears, laughter, and words of wisdom with them. He’s kissed scraped knees, held crying children, and taught practical skills.

He demonstrates the love of a father as best he can, leading our children on the path to openly embrace the love of their heavenly Father.

Someday, I pray my son will pass on a Christ-filled legacy to his own children. For now, though, it is enough to guide him toward his next step on the path.

How are you lighting the path for your children? Share on X

Happy Father’s Day to a great dad and husband, to my ever-supportive father,  and to fathers everywhere. May you enjoy this blessed weekend with your loved ones.

And I fondly remember and honor my faith-filled father-in-law who went be with his Lord in 2005. We greatly miss him.

Impress these words of Mine on your hearts and souls, bind them as a sign on your hands, and let them be a symbol on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up (Deuteronomy 11:18–19 HCSB).

Reflections: Is there someone you would like to pay tribute to as we approach Father’s Day? Who helped guide you on the path you’re traveling?

This is a re-purposed post from June 2012 that linked with The Gypsy Mama for Five Minute Friday for real 5 minute writing on the prompt Path.