Christian Reflection and Prayer

from Our Daily Bread

Scripture:

We exhorted, and comforted, and charged
every one of you, as a father does his own
children. —1 Thess. 2:11

Reflection:

In the US, more long distance calls are
made on Mother’s Day than any other day.
But on Father’s Day, the most collect calls
are made. It seems that children still depend
on their fathers to provide, even when they
are far away from home.

Fathers are needed and wanted for much
more than financial help. While 1 Thessalonians
2:10-12 is primarily directed toward church
leaders, Paul talks about how their role is
similar to a father’s. He states: “You know
how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged
every one of you, as a father does his own children.”

Exhorted is “to call near.” It is easy for fathers
to think that all that’s required of them is to
bring home a paycheck. But children need
their close encouragement.

The word comforted is “to console.” Nothing is
more valuable to a child than the time given by
a father to listen and talk. Without constant
relating, relationships turn cold.

Charged is “to affirm.” Fathers challenge their
children by affirming the truth of God’s Word
as they live it out in front of them. And even in
failings, they affirm what is right through the
asking of forgiveness.

How thankful we can be for fathers who help
their children “walk worthy of God” (v.12).

GOOD FATHERS REFLECT THE HEAVENLY
FATHER.

Prayer:

Oh Father I am so thankful for my father/
He was a special gift from You.
Help me to shom my honor for him
by what I say and do. In the Name of the
Son of my Holy Father AMEN

HAPPY FATHERS DAY!