This Father’s Day, I reflect on my dad and the blessings he has passed on to me. 

I remember planting the garden with him, learning to swim under his coaching, and going with him to the shops each week. In everything we did together when I was a child, I felt cherished.

Dad taught me many life lessons. One was the value of hard work. Another was honesty. If a cashier gave him too much change, even a few pennies, he would quickly return it. 

My dad also taught me about the importance of spending time with God. We had family prayers nearly every evening, sometimes to my protests. Dad firmly said, ‘It’s time for prayers’, even if I was watching my favourite TV show.

As an older adult, my dad has demonstrated grace in difficult times. He has been a carer for two spouses. He has embodied love, faithfulness, sacrificial giving and strong faith.

I think about people who have no pleasant memories of a loving father, and I pray that they will discover God’s love through other significant people. I am grateful to have had a dad who served as a role model and helped me to grow spiritually.

Prayer: Dear loving God, thank you for parents who embody your grace and love. May those who grow up in homes without good parenting encounter other people who will demonstrate your love for them. Amen