Today is the day to celebrate Dads. As I did on Mother’s Day, I wish to remind you to honor your children alongside you. Without them, you would not be a dad.

 Let me start off with a word picture. Imagine men walking around without a head. I’m not speaking of the apocalypse, just a mental picture that may seem unsettling.

There are an alarming number of homes without a father figure present. Many young people are questioning their gender identity because they lack the input a father has to offer. They need to see role play lived out. Not to say fathers and mothers are incapable of working what the opposite sex generally does. But by doing so—children get a full scope of all their opportunities.

Kids need a hero to look up to, a man that has interests and is willing to share them with his littles. A dad that is willing to enter his children’s  world and learn what interests they have. They need a strong male that can be depended upon always—and at the same time sensitive enough to attend an occasional tea party hosted by his daughter.

That is a tall order. I will be the first to admit fatherhood is a tough job. In his spare time there are home repairs and yardwork to be done, not to mention his career. He may offer a helping hand to his wife, because the demands of running a home never end for either of you.

Times of rest and relaxation are few and far between. Can I hear an Amen?

Men, you need to understand how important you are to our upcoming generation. Fathers’ are the head of a home—do not consider abandoning a home with no head. It creates a lop-sided, unsettled environment.

In case you need it written out—mothers need a husband to join them in shouldering the joys and frustration of training the next generation. It takes teamwork—sometimes grandparents join the fray. I’ve heard it said, ‘It takes a tribe to raise a child.’

Be the influencer Jesus made you to be. He is right there with you, arming you with his wisdom to pass on. Your presence, words and actions all matter.

I salute all that you father’s do and wish you a Happy Father’s Day!