June 21, 2010
 
DEVOTION: Father God
 
By Beth Bondurant
 
It took over 50 years for Father's Day to become a recognized holiday in this country. Somehow the idea just didn't seem to be understood fully as far as it's meaning and purpose.
 
There was even debate over the spelling... whether it should be singular or plural and actually the first proposal was for Fathers' Day. Many countries around the world celebrate their founding Fathers... military Fathers... spiritual Fathers... ruling Fathers... which may add to the confusion as to whether or not it should be singular or plural in the written form.
 
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. God chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all God's creation.
 
Scripture tells us that God is the Father of the Universe... Creator of all people. For us Father's Day is a special recognition of God who is our Father.
 
We become fathers to many as we are called out to be God's hands and feet here on earth. What a responsibility! Fathering all those around us ... loving others as God loves us... including everyone in our circle of life... reaching out with grace and peace in all that we do.
 
No wonder the meaning of this day is important... as God's love is poured out.. in and around us... uniting us and making us family.
 
O God... help me to recognize you as the one who made me and holds me in your hands. I want to be like clay and allow you to mold me and make into the creation you feel best provides guidance and direction for others to feel and know your redeeming love. Forgive me when I don't talk with you about the details of today and ask that you move in my heart, mind and spirit to bring hope and healing in whatever I do. How can I say thanks for your provisions and sustaining Spirit. Keep me in your fatherly care and help me reflect your unconditional love to all your children.