Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6
As we journey through the changing seasons in March, let’s pause to reflect on the timeless concept of “The Blessing.” Growing up, my childhood was often without the steady presence of a father figure. Yet, the moments shared with my stepfather were cherished memories that illuminated my path as a young boy. Those experiences, whether simple conversations or shared activities, set the course for days filled with anticipation and excitement for the months ahead. Even in the absence of a constant father figure, both seen and unseen scars left their mark, echoing the silent yet powerful words of affirmation and pride from those who played a role in shaping my life.
When the time came for me to step into the role of a father, it was a day filled with unparalleled joy, yet tinged with the fear of the unknown. Like many men, I found myself searching for guidance, only to be met with a scarcity of resources on fatherhood. While mothers had the well-known book “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” the landscape for fathers seemed sparse. In my moments of searching, I cried out to the Lord, feeling the weight of inadequacy and the absence of a reference point to guide me. 0But in that moment of vulnerability, I was reminded of the ultimate Father, both in the divine sense and as an adoptive father. God, in His infinite love and wisdom, serves as the perfect example of fatherhood. He showers us with His love, watches over us with care, makes His presence known in various ways, always focuses on our good, and disciplines us so that we may learn and grow through obedience.
As I embarked on the journey of fatherhood, both to a daughter and a son, I realized the similarities and differences in raising each child. However, one universal truth emerged—both my children needed to hear their father’s blessings. They needed to sense the approval and affirmation that comes with a father’s love. Recognizing this need, heaven responded in the most profound way possible by sending us a Savior in Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice and redemption, the enemy’s destructive works aimed at undermining the role of loving parents are defeated once and for all. In Christ, we find the ultimate example of sacrificial love and the assurance that we are deeply loved and cherished by our Heavenly Father.
May we embrace our redeemed roles as instruments of blessing in our families, workplaces, and communities. Let us reflect on the profound truth of “The Blessing” and seek to impart love, affirmation, and encouragement to those around us, just as our Heavenly Father does for each of His children.
Because He lives,
Pastor Reggie Sheppard