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Esau said to his father, “Do you have only one blessing, my father? Bless me too, my father!” Then Esau wept aloud. Genesis 27:38
Father’s Day is just a week away. Are you ready? Compared to the holiday honoring moms, many would agree that Father’s Day just doesn’t carry the same oomph.Years ago, I heard that AT&T saw the highest call volume of the year on Mother’s Day. Father’s Day had its own record; it had the most “collect calls.”
While collect calls might be a bit outdated today, the number of calls – or texts, might not be all that different. Mom’s just get a majority of the attention, and well deserved! Despite that, both moms and dads are important and needed, just appreciated in different ways.
The Bible lifts up the role of fathers, especially their high calling. Fathers are to reflect the character of God the Father – as spiritual guides, loving providers, and gentle protectors who point their children toward wisdom and maturity.
I believe it is true that all people, men in particular, desire their father’s blessing. It is the job of every father to bless his children. Sadly, few take up the task. Did you receive a blessing from your father?
The father’s blessing is seen as very valuable in the Bible. In Genesis, Jacob swindles Esau out of his birthright, and he outright steals his father’s blessing from him. When Esau discovers that he has missed his father’s blessing, he turns into a brokenhearted little boy. He burst out with a loud and bitter cry, and said to his father, "Bless me—me too, my father!" Then Esau wept aloud.
Even if you cannot get the blessing of your natural father, God our Father in heaven, wants to bless us, and you are still able to proclaim that your blessing on your family, friends, and neighbors. You can bless people with your prayers, your conversations, texts, and emails. You don’t have to use “spiritual” language to do that, just tell people what is good and right in their life. Even the worst people have something you can bless. You don’t need to lie to them, but ask God to show you what you can truly bless – and do it. People are aching to be blessed! It is a gift our worlds needs desperately.
This Father’s Day, let’s encourage fathers, and each other, to truly offer their blessings on those around them who need it the most.
See you in worship this Sunday! And if you aren’t able to make it, don’t forget to watch our live stream on YouTube. We’ve made some big improvements lately to the stream, and you can watch it anytime!
In the name of Jesus;
Pastor Dan
ANNOUNCEMENTS
- Join us for worship this Sunday at First Evangelical and Holy Cross churches. We will have new member orientations coming up in July and welcoming a group in August. If you know anyone who might be interested in joining the churches, please contact one of the pastors or the office.
- First Evangelical Church Council will meet after worship on Sunday.
- Our prayers go out to the family and friends of Ronald Benhart who passed away earlier this week. Funeral service will be 2:30 on Monday, June 15 at Quattlebaum Funeral Home (6411 Parker Ave), with visitation 12:-2:30.
- Please bring your non-perishable food items (no glass) through the end of June and drop in one of the large boxes at the back of church as we gather items for the Palm Beach County Food Shelf. Items can include peanut butter, canned soup,oatmeal, protein bars, rice, pasta, etc.
- Registration is open for Vacation Bible School, June 15-19, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for 4-&5-year-olds and elementary youth. Our theme this year is: “True North”, where the kids will have an unforgettable Alaskan adventure! The program is free and is an exciting way for kids to learn and grow in the Gospel this summer.
- Vacation Bible School, begins Monday, is June 15-19, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for4-&5-year-olds and elementary youth. If you have not registered yet, you are still welcome to join! Registration will be available each night at check in. Our theme this year is: “True North”, where the kids will have an unforgettable Alaskan adventure! The program is free and is an exciting way for kids to learn and grow in the Gospel this summer.
- Grace Notes String Camp begins June 15thwith two 2-week daily sessions for youth. Their teachers will be sharing special music for us on Sundays, June 21 and July 5th. Making a joyful noise unto the Lord!
