Sunday, June 15, 2014

Happy Father's Day 2014


When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. Psalm 27:10, KJV
Today we celebrate Father's Day in America.  In the spirit of the day, we honor not only the biological fathers who stepped up to the plate and have handled their business over the years but also those men who have stood in the gap due to the absence of bio dads and been role models, counselors, protectors, providers, prayer warriors -- whatever was needed to bring and nurture a young soul along.

As always on days like these, I not only give primary honor to my own father Mr. Roland Lane, Sr. for a lifelong history of service, sacrifice, love, fidelity, and commitment, but I remember those who were not so blessed for whatever reason to have a father figure present in their lives or whose fathers are no longer present on this earthly plane to hear the refrains of the accolades hurled their way. I also give honorable mention to my brothers, Roland Lane, Jr. and Jason Lane, for modeling the pattern of fatherhood set down by my father and carrying on the legacy. A special shout out to Morris "Bil" Lewis, Jr., my brother-in-law, for the exceptional care and parenting that he brings to the life of my nephew/godson.
As I scroll through the posts on my social media I see many narratives that break my heart -- tales of sons and daughters whose fathers didn’t take up the mantle of their calling and who abandoned them during the course of their lives. These posters poignantly express the sense of loss deeply embedded in their souls, their feelings of abandonment and rejection. To this group I offer this encouragement: there still is a hope for you. There is One who sits on high and looks down low, and He both sees and feels your pain.

Where your earthly father has missed the mark, know that your Heavenly Father has never abandoned you. Even when you have not felt His presence He has been right there by your side. He has ordained provision and provided protection that you will never know about until you see Him face to face. Most importantly, He showers down His love and is waiting for You to turn to Him and receive it.
Let that void in your heart be filled with the perfect love that only our Heavenly Father can give -- and armed with that love join the ranks of us who happily celebrate the true meaning of this day. You are not alone. You are not forgotten. No regrets. No sorrow. No looking back.

Happy Father's Day!

*Photo credit: Via Rachel Kramer

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