When my father and my
mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. Psalm 27:10, KJV
Today we celebrate Father's Day in America. In the spirit of the day, we honor not only
the biological fathers who stepped up to the plate and have handled their
business over the years but also those men who have stood in the gap due to the
absence of bio dads and been role models, counselors, protectors, providers,
prayer warriors -- whatever was needed to bring and nurture a young soul along.
As always on days like these, I not only give primary honor to
my own father Mr. Roland Lane, Sr. for a lifelong history of service,
sacrifice, love, fidelity, and commitment, but I remember those who were not so
blessed for whatever reason to have a father figure present in their lives or
whose fathers are no longer present on this earthly plane to hear the refrains
of the accolades hurled their way. I also give honorable mention to my
brothers, Roland Lane, Jr. and Jason Lane, for modeling the pattern of
fatherhood set down by my father and carrying on the legacy. A special shout
out to Morris "Bil" Lewis, Jr., my brother-in-law, for the
exceptional care and parenting that he brings to the life of my nephew/godson.
As I scroll through the posts on my social media I see many
narratives that break my heart -- tales of sons and daughters whose fathers didn’t
take up the mantle of their calling and who abandoned them during the course of
their lives. These posters poignantly express the sense of loss deeply embedded
in their souls, their feelings of abandonment and rejection. To this group I
offer this encouragement: there still is a hope for you. There is One who
sits on high and looks down low, and He both sees and feels your pain.
Where your earthly father has missed the mark, know that
your Heavenly Father has never abandoned you. Even when you have not felt His
presence He has been right there by your side. He has ordained provision and
provided protection that you will never know about until you see Him face to
face. Most importantly, He showers down His love and is waiting for You to turn
to Him and receive it.
Let that void in your heart be filled with the perfect love
that only our Heavenly Father can give -- and armed with that love join the
ranks of us who happily celebrate the true meaning of this day. You are not alone. You are not
forgotten. No regrets. No sorrow. No looking back.
Happy Father's Day!
*Photo credit: Via Rachel Kramer
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