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The Father We Never Have To Lose

The Father We Never Have To Lose

There are some titles that speak not only to what we believe, but to what our hearts need to remember. The Father We Never Have To Lose is one of those reminders. In a month filled with memorable dates, celebrated lives, and meaningful moments, Father’s Day has a way of touching something deeply personal within each of us—gratitude for the fathers we have known, tenderness for the fathers we miss, and comfort in knowing that our Heavenly Father remains constant, present, and full of compassion.

June is one of those months filled with dates, names, and moments that helped shape history, yet many of them quietly slip from our memory. For instance, June marks the birth of American military hero and actor Audie Murphy (1924–1971), the most decorated American soldier of World War II. He received 37 medals and decorations, including the Medal of Honor, after single-handedly turning back a German infantry company by climbing onto a burning U.S. tank destroyer and firing its .50-caliber machine gun. After the war, he became an actor in western and war movies, appearing in 45 films, including The Red Badge of Courage (1951), Destry (1954), and To Hell and Back (1955), which was based on his autobiography.

June also marks the birth of American musician Mildred J. Hill (1859–1916), whose melody became part of what is now the world’s most familiar song: “Happy Birthday to You.” It is remarkable to think how one simple tune has found its way into homes, restaurants, classrooms, and celebrations all around the world.

June is also remembered for several defining moments in history. On D-Day, June 6, 1944, Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy on the northern coast of France. On June 15, 1215, King John set his seal to the Magna Carta, the first charter of British liberties and a foundation for many democratic principles that followed. And on June 20, 1782, the U.S. Congress officially adopted the Great Seal of the United States of America.

These are dates worth remembering, aren’t they? And yet, they represent only a small glimpse of the remarkable people, meaningful milestones, and historic moments connected to the month of June. The truth is, many important dates come and go without much thought, quietly slipping from our memory as time moves on.

But there is one June date many of us do pause to remember each year: Father’s Day, observed on the third Sunday of the month. Yesterday, we set aside time to honor and recognize fathers—those who have loved, provided, guided, sacrificed, and left lasting marks on our lives.

I am deeply grateful to the Lord for allowing me to experience the gift of fatherhood. I have been blessed with two sons whom I love dearly, and I am so proud of the men they have become. One of my greatest joys has been watching them grow not only into strong and faithful men, but also into loving fathers themselves.

Of course, I could not reflect on Father’s Day without recognizing my own father. He was never a wealthy man, but he always worked hard to provide for our family. He was not a perfect man—and like all of us, he had his flaws—but in my eyes, there was no one more important. What I remember most is that he was, and still is, a godly man. He did not simply teach us how to live a godly life; he lived it before us. He took us to church and showed us how to worship the Lord. He served faithfully in the church and taught us, by example, the importance of serving as well. I can say without hesitation that I am the man of God I am today because of the godly example of my earthly father.

Thankfully, my wonderful dad is still with us at 94 years of age. The hard part is that I do not get to enjoy his company as often as I would like because nearly 800 miles separate us. Still, I was grateful to talk with Dad yesterday and to tell him again how much I love him.

For some, yesterday was a full house—children, grandchildren, a long table, and more food than anyone needed. For others, it was quieter. Maybe there was an empty chair at the table. Maybe the man you would have called is no longer a phone call away. Maybe Father’s Day has always been a complicated day for reasons you do not say out loud.

That is why this promise in Psalm 103:13 is such a comfort. It lifts our eyes beyond every earthly experience of fatherhood—whether joyful, painful, or somewhere in between—and points us to the one Father whose love is steady, compassionate, and never out of reach:

Psalms 103:13 “Just as a father loves his children, so the Lord loves those who fear and worship Him [with awe-filled respect and deepest reverence].[AMP]

Some of us were blessed with wonderful fathers. Some of us carry wounds, questions, or empty places where a father’s love should have been. But Psalm 103:13 reminds us that God’s compassion is not limited by our earthly experiences. His love does not grow weary, run short, or walk away. He is the Father who remains near, understands our hearts, and loves His children with steady, holy compassion.

Whatever Father’s Day may have held for you, may you rest today in the comfort of the Father who never leaves, never forgets, and never stops loving His children.

Blessings my friend, and may you have a wonderful day!