Only our heavenly Father is perfect and relationships are complicated. So most of them could use a bit more honesty and a lot of forgiveness.
If you were to believe Father’s Day cards and the things we say on Father’s Day you would think there were a ton of perfect fathers out there. We know better.
We would do ourselves some good if we would bring some honesty into our observance of Father’s Day. For most of us our dads did the best they knew, but what they knew wasn’t nearly enough. Most of us carry some scars and have issues with our dads. For some of us, there was no present dad or we would have been better off if he had been out of the picture. But as we get older it’s just not cool to tell it like it is. I don’t recognize the guy my daughter describes as the father she remembers from her childhood, thank God.
Built up resentments and hurts don’t help anyone. So, first of all, let’s be honest. Dad could have done better. But let’s also remember that only the Heavenly Father is perfect. So how about a little forgiveness. Dad I forgive you for what you didn’t do. And for us dads, maybe we should forgive ourselves. We could have done better. If your children are still available reach out. If dad is still around, it’s not too late for a relationship.
This isn’t about love. Don’t feel guilty when you admit that your parental relationship wasn’t perfect. Love isn’t about perfection, it’s about honesty and forgiveness. That stupid movie that said “Love is never having to say your sorry” was all wrong. Love is honestly admitting our imperfections and being quick to say “sorry.”
Our Father is a model for what fathers should be. But He is so much more. He is really the father none of us ever had. He is perfect. He is loving and good. He wants what’s best for us and is willing to get it out of us with loving discipline. Go to Him for everything you didn’t get from dad.
So kids, honor your fathers today for his efforts and forgive him for his failures. No matter how messed up dad might have been; isn’t it time to take responsibility for who we are today?
Dads forgive yourselves. Pick yourselves up. You can do nothing about the past. Move forward. And thank God that He is there to pick up the pieces.
Ladies, aren’t you thankful it’s eleven months until Mother’s Day?
Be blessed.
Nick
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