Today we celebrate Father’s Day. Dads all over the country will be pampered with special meals, hugs and kisses and gifts that laud him as the “World’s Greatest Dad”. But what makes a great dad? And who can really deserve that title? Some might say he’s a man who loves his children and provides good things for his family. Or, he is a person who is wise and understanding, teaching his kids to become responsible adults. I say that these are certainly great characteristics that are ingredients of a great father. But there is one Father who far excels every expectation, every accolade, every virtue when it comes to naming a “Father-of-the-Year” candidate. Our Heavenly Father is all of these things and more. And His everlasting love for His children cannot be compared to even the greatest man’s on earth.
Have you ever seen a daddy rise up quicker than when someone lays a hand (or threatens to) on his little daughter or son? Our Heavenly Father is the same way. He too rises up and comes running to our defense when we cry out for help.
“There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides the heavens to help you, and in His excellency on the clouds. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms; He will thrust out the enemy from before you, and will say, ‘Destroy!’” Deuteronomy 33:26-27
And our Wonderful Father has an eternal, drawing love that comes with a promise.
“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.” Psalm 91:14-16
You may not feel deserving of such a love and tender care that the “World’s Greatest Father” bestows. Maybe you have wandered from His paths and have fallen into some old habits that trip you up. But you don’t have to be enslaved by these things that are constantly trying to pull your attention away from your Father’s loving embrace. Let Romans 8:15-17 remind you of your standing as an adopted son in your Awesome Daddy’s eyes,
“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.”
Cast aside your doubts and fears and run to your Heavenly Father today. Allow Him to wash over you with His love and mercy and grace. May you find refuge in your Father’s everlasting arms today, the best Father’s Day gift ever!