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Jul 01, 2022 08:00am

First Corinthians 13 for Dads by Birth or Influence.

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I can build forts and tree houses, and coach all my kids’ teams, but without love, I’m just over-scheduled and missing the eternal.

I can wrestle a wet toddler during bath time, and turn an ironing board into a surfboard, but if I don’t have love, it’s a mere chore or activity.

Love is patient when the opinionated teenager needs a heaping helping of grace.

Love is kind when the influential coach doesn’t share your core values.

It does not envy the practice of political correctness but stands on God’s biblical definition of truth.

Love does not brag when your kid merely succeeds but rejoices and recognizes genuine effort or recognition for all deserving amateurs, especially for those who have no fan club in the stands.

It doesn’t boast, even if you believe it’s the best way to build confidence in your offspring and glory for yourself. #notagoodlook

Love is never rude when asked, “Are we sharing parenting responsibilities equally?”

Love is not easily angered when the family vehicle needs another repair due to the newly acquired driver’s learning permit.

It does not delight in pointing out the exaggeration of “Everyone’s doing whatever,” but provides a framework of truth for why decisions are made for those living in our home.

Love doesn’t give up hope. Instead, clear expectations and consistent implementation with consequences take the emotion out of the decisions made.

It perseveres and trusts through violet hair dye, rude bodily functions, stinky gym clothes, and questionable friend choices.

Love never fails or times out. (Period)

But where there are memories of police blue lights, first love heartbreaks, and pets crossing the rainbow bridge, they will fade.

Where there are sarcastic retorts, eye rolls, and an attempt to slam doors . . . (Please, Lord, let them come to an end!)

For whatever unfolds through the rollercoaster of parenting, may we keep the BIG things the BIG things . . . follow Jesus!

Just as we all needed a parent who showed up, invested deeply, and loved unconditionally; may we be reminded that parenting doesn’t come with manuals or guaranteed outcomes.

And maybe give thanks that heaven is the address for our less than stellar parenting to dissipate. (Can I get an amen?)

May our heavenly Father continue to remind ALL Dad’s (be it by birth or influence) that He knows best how to protect, provide, hold us close, and sacrificially love us in a way that earthly minds cannot fathom.

As in eternity past, present, and future, may we acknowledge that THE three still remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is the Father’s love.

It’s truly not about dealing with the “Dad bod” but all about being the “Father figure” that resembles Jesus!