The Best Fathers Not Only Give Us Life ...

Ever since we were little, there was always this eagerness to grow up; to take the first step, to utter the first word, to attend school and quickly graduate so that we can join the working force.  Time seems to whizz past at supersonic speed.

The working years tightly scheduled our life.  Our time was fully occupied, so sacrifices were made, and we had to forgo many things.  We have to be grateful for all the blessings that we receive, and be thankful for each day that passes by without incident.








I was reflecting about growing old on this special day.  I assumed and believed we are all filial sons and daughters.  When our dads grow older and older, maybe some will have retired from their careers by now.  I wonder how many of us "love our dads" in the way that allows him to continue to be the man that he is.

Dads who are now retired are dads from a different era. Most of our dads are the strong silent types, not like many of the younger dads nowadays who will try to be good friends with their kids.

A person's spirit is the hardest to please and easiest to break.  Love comes in many disguises.  Love is not just money but attitude as well.  Reconsider how we love our dads. Mine is no longer around.  One way, even if they are no longer with us, is to show respect for the values they taught us.  If your dad still is, be thankful, and be the better son and daughter.  Love your dad better.  Some things never change, like the fragrance of home.

THE BEST FATHERS NOT ONLY GIVE US LIFE -- THEY TEACH US HOW  TO  LIVE.

A Privilege of a Parent

For the many years of my life, this is the first time that I celebrated Father's Day alone.  My spouse is away on a Mission trip to China while my son is travelling back to Labuan due to work commitment, where as my daughter in still stuck in Singapore, finishing up her graduating reports and assignments.

Today I have the privilege to spend some quality time in building up the relationship with my Father in heaven, and also a time reflecting the grace, love and mercy of the heavenly Father.

We use our time wisely when we combine the appropriate 'stop' with the proper 'steps'. According to Solomon, there is a time for all of God's purposes to be accomplished (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

Missionary J.Robertson McQuilkin said, "God has planned the strength and beauty of youth to be physical, but the strength and beauty of old age is spriitual."

Because God remains the same, we can rely on Him through the shifting seasons of life.  His presence is always with us (Psalm 46:1), His peace has the power to guard our hearts (Phillipians 4:7), and His love provides security for our souls (Romans 8:39).

Priest, Prophet & King

Father's Day was celebrated on the 4th of September in Perth, Australia. We attended Sunday Worship at Faith Community Church at Winthrop Baptist College, Perth. Pas. Benny Ho, the Senior Pastor, was sharing the role of a father that include :- PRIEST, PROPHET and KING.

The role of a priest as Job carried out in the book of Job 1:5 When a period of feasting had run its course, Job would make arrangements for them to be purified. Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” This was Job’s regular custom.

A priest to pray and intercede for the family and loved one.

[representing his family to God]

A prophet is to teach and guide as the Lord speaks to the father.

[representing God to his family]

Only when you are a priest and a prophet, then you earn the rights to lead as a king.

[governing his family on behalf of God]

Just like Jesus, playing His role as the High Priest (Hebrew 4:14-16), Prophet (Matthew 13:57) and King (Luke 1:32-33)(Matthew 25:31).

DADDY, YOU ARE MY HERO

Father, You're The Best, My Delight
Father, You're Sweet
Sweeter Than Honey On The Rocks
Father, You're The Light In The Night
Father, You're My Strength, And My Forever Friend

Abba Father, You're My Hero
You're There When I Need You
You Sent The Greatest Gift Of Love
Into My Life

Father, You're The Best, And You're Mine
Father, You're So Sweet
Sweeter Than Anyone I've Met
Daddy, You're The Song In The Night
Father, You're My Strength, And My Forever Friend

Daddy, Daddy, You're My Hero
You're There, When I Need You
You're The Greatest Gift
I've Received In My Life
[a song written & sung by Pas. KB Chan]

Fathers play a vital role in the family. They are often viewed as the cornerstone of the family. They are not only the breadwinner but also the nurturer who has significant influence on his children's growth and development. A hands-on father is also a productive worker who sets a positive example for his family.

It is found that parents with high self-esteem tend to show more love and acceptance of their children. When children are encouraged rather than criticised or punished, they will be more successful in their learning.
Dr Thomas Lickona in his book, Raising Good Children, pointed out that it is important for a child to develop a sense of identity within his family. He said that teenagers continue to need adults in their lives and the family plays an important role in keeping them morally rooted and knowing who they are.

Fathers are often viewed as the cornerstone of the family. So to all fathers out there : You are essential to your child's life. You are the beacon that guides them as they journey on.
[Partly extracted from 'Childwise' StarTwo dated 17 June 2009]

HAPPY FATHER 'S DAY !

Ephesians 6 : 4 - Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.