GN Commentary: June 19, 2009 - Why a Family Needs a Dad!

With Father's Day rapidly approaching, let's take a look at why a family needs to value "Dad".

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Video Transcript

There's an old saying that goes something like this, "Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a Dad". 

With Father's Day rapidly approaching, let's take a look at why a family needs to value "Dad".

I remember my admiration and love for my father who was  a hard-working blue collar worker who provided for his family emotionally and financially.  He was loving, fun and understanding.

Why do we need dads?  We need dads for their example.  That's how a boy learns how to be a man, a husband and a friend.  A girl needs to sense his strength and protection, his kindness and his loving care. My dad's example of hard work and a loving relationship with my mom added much to the life of us children.

We need dad for the time he spends with us. My dad took the time to help me with school projects. He took time out to take me to baseball and basketball practice though he had worked hard all day and was tired. I remember when he took the time to play croquet with us in the back yard. And the time he spent showing me as a youngster how to plant my little garden while he planted his large one. And, though he had only limited formal education, he took the time to help me with eleventh and twelfth grade homework.

We need dad's support for us.  I remember my dad packing up my little brother and taking him in a stroller to support me at my little league baseball games.  To glance into the stands and see my dad sitting their meant more to me than he ever knew. My dad's support in getting my driver's license was a confidence builder for sure.

Finally, we need our dads for the love they show us.  A girl's first love is her dad.  When he compliments her and gives her a hug and kiss at bedtime, it gives her the feeling of security and good self-esteem.  I remember pretending to still be sleeping in the back seat of the car after a long ride home.  My dad would take me up in his strong arms and carry me up the steps to bed—I felt his warmth and love in that act.  

You will undoubtedly have your own reasons for needing your dad.  I hope sharing some of my experiences with you is will spark some of your own thoughts. 

So, on Father's Day and regularly, remember to appreciate honor and love your fathers—your Dads (Ephesians 6:2)—To God Himself, you cannot give a more honorable title than "Father" (Matthew 6:9).

For GN Magazine, I'm Gary Antion.