Since 1964, there have been several memorable songs in America and throughout the world. One of the most popular, My Girl, was the first Temptation single to feature David Ruffin, the voice which transformed this group’s popularity. However, on Father’s Day, I wonder why there hasn’t there been a similar song to honor dads, something like “My Dad.” Although I will leave this up to professional song writers, I do think its vital to remember my own dad on this day.
As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him, Psalm 103:13.
My father was six feet tall as a twelve year old, a size that probably saved his life as the Russians began to invade his native Lithuania. Fleeing his homeland and hiding in the Black Forest for weeks, my dad came to America with the clothes on his back. Nothing was given to him as he earned a second language English, devoted himself to education and fell in love with the game of football, playing for the University of Pennsylvania before moving on to the Wharton School of Business. From here, my dad went on to live the American dream, working his way up the corporate ladder before retiring after thirty years of service with the same company.
Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation, Psalm 68:5.
Today, I wish I had the same financial resources which my father provided, yet a different calling took me in another direction. Though I dabbled with a career in golf as an architect and P.G.A. professional, the Holy Spirit nudged me toward youth ministry. Weaving in coaching, teaching and writing, I’m not sure what the ending of my story on earth will look like. Nonetheless, I am grateful for a wonderful father, encouraging family and a faith that steers me near the narrow road. From here, all I can do is honor my father and mother, provide for my wife and children and only hope that I can have as much as an impact as my own father had on me. Happy Father’s Day to all of you dad’s!
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 