SHOW THE LOVE YOU WERE ONCE LOOKING FOR

As we reflect on Father’s Day, we must recognize that not everyone experiences joy during this time. For some, it evokes memories of disappointment and heartache, while for others, it feels like just another ordinary day. However, if we are honest with ourselves, many of us secretly desire to celebrate this occasion. Regrettably, the passage of time often convinces us that it’s best to move on, leaving behind wounds that may still need healing. Many of us are tired of being hurt and hesitate to embark on the difficult journey of repairing a fractured relationship.  However, if both sides are willing to be vulnerable and are committed to not only the process but the relationship, love can mend the wounds time couldn’t.

The war on fatherhood is a fight many men are ill-equipped to fight.  Many men lost the war well before they became fathers and many broken families don’t realize they are all a part of this war.  God planned for the father to be in the house.  God planned for the father to lead and protect the household.  God saw the father as an extension of himself which is why many individuals who have not experienced a father’s love find it hard to connect with God the Father.  In John 3:16, it says, For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son…Our fathers should be willing to do anything needed but many of us didn’t get to experience that type of love, but for some of us, it’s not too late.

At this point, pride might be shouting in your ear telling you there’s nothing you can do to rectify the damage that has already been done.  Ego might be reminding you, there’s no way you should be calling that man after all the things he did or didn’t do.  But there is another voice that might be whispering while nudging you gently saying, maybe it’s time…If you aren’t feeling the nudge, the question becomes are numb or is it truly worth it.

LOVE THROUGH ADVERSITY

Now obviously, I understand all relationships shouldn’t be fixed.  Both sides must desire to connect with one another but if that side is you who has been saying no, or not yet, pray for clarity because today maybe the perfect time to break the ice.  Pray for guidance on what to say and pray for patience and understanding because the road you are considering going down, is not going to be a perfect path.  Sometimes less is more and all you may need to do is say Happy Father’s Day.

For some a simple call is that will be needed, others may need to have a plan with boundaries, while others will need counseling.  The path to healing and creating a strong connection will be different and difficult just like any relationship but love conquers all.  In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 it says, ⁴ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  When we love, love allows us to heal through forgiveness.  Love allows for what was lost to be restored.

It is never too late when both individuals wholeheartedly engage in the process, no matter if you come across this article before or after Father’s Day.