Celebrating Fatherhood

Australia celebrated Father's Day yesterday, 5th September. People smirked at the thought of institutionalising this day, and commercialising it. Department stores, pharmacies, hardware and auto shops, plus a host of other establishments, have come up with discounts and promotions enticing buyers/families to buy something for the man of the house.

One could exercise short arms and deep pockets, as a choice. But coming into terms, having a day to thank fathers is a good day to remind us to be grateful to them. Much is given to "mother's day" and mother's portrayed as our "angels" (because they are). However, our fathers share half as much of who we are today (or maybe, who we're not).

We have "father memories" or recollections of our times being with our father. What do you keep in your "father memory"?

The book of proverbs has mentioned "Fathers" twenty-six times. It has written down the roles, the responsibilities of the fathers for his children and wife.

Proverbs 17:6 "Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers." We are not just bound in the present time, but should look toward the future. "What will my children think of me when they look back?"

Few weeks ago, as I send off my boy to his class, I overhead the school secretary asking a 7-year old girl who was absent several days from her class. The little girl's response was, " Troubles at home, madam. My father was in jail again." Ten or twenty years from now, she'll look back and would definitely still have this impression carved in her heart.

Fathers are their children's lifelong instructors. Proverbs 3:21 "Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding." At home, is it always, "Ask your mom about that."? Of course, moms share the discipline part but one do find it different when dads enforce and maintain the boundaries. It felt more secure.

Fathers should teach children about their values and moral systems. In a relationship, the male is always viewed as the protector. He is the protector against harm and also the protector of reputation.

Father should also show their children that they love their children's mother. It is the only way for them to learn how they will treat their spouses when the time comes. Proverbs 20:6 "Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find?".

As a father, does your family feel secure and protected? Do you provide emotional support? Are you consistent and fair in enforcing discipline? Do you teach values, beliefs, and morals in life? Are you fun to be with?

Yes, it is a big task to be a father, for the very reason we remember them this Father's day.

We love you dads!!

PS. This picture was taken on last year's Father's day. My husband has to fly back to work 4000kms away from home, so he was not with us this special day. We love you, sweetheart.