Absent Father's

There is a term that is being used to describe some of the Father's in our modern culture. It is the term "absent fathers." It is being used to identify a group of men who seem to disappear or disengage themselves from the parenting role in the life of their children. This post is not intended to explore the many reasons that have contributed to the need to use that term when it comes to describing the men who have fathered children and have not chosen to participate in their children's lives. Rather than developing a post concerning the absent Fathers I am choosing to spend a few moments celebrating the Fathers who are PRESENT in the lives of their children. These men of all ages deserve our love, respect and appreciation. These men deserve to be honored and recognized for their contributions to the improvement of our society. These men seek to serve God as well as serve their families through daily courageous actions that seek to preserve the integrity of the family unit. Let us take a moment and applaud these men for their consistent faithfulness; their love for their family and their care and concern for their loved ones.  

I can remember an activity that took place on a daily occasion when I was attending school. The teacher would address the class and "call the roll." The students would respond with the word "present" when they heard their names called and a non-response or silence would alert the teacher to the fact that a student or students were absent. Some of you may remember the Sunday School Class Roll Book in which the class secretary would place an "A" or a "P" by your name identifying the fact that you were either absent or present. 

There is a daily "roll call" being extended across our world today. God is calling for Fathers to answer "Present" when their name is called. The wives of these men as well as their children are waiting, hoping, and praying that their husband and father will answer "Present." There is far too much silence in the homes around our nation. We are in need of Fathers who are present in the lives of their children rather than ignoring and forgetting their responsibilities. How will you answer that question today? How do you plan on answering that question tomorrow? I truly believe that you can hear millions of Father's answering "Present" if you listen close enough.

I am thankful that I grew up in a home with a Father who was present. I am thankful that I choose to answer present when fatherhood became one the job descriptions added to my responsibilities in 1973. I was not a perfect Father by any means but I did choose to answer the roll call every day and declare through my actions that I was present. I am thankful for our two sons and their willingness and desire to answer present on a daily basis in the lives of their wives and children. Not one of us are perfect parents but God will provide the strength we need when we choose to answer "PRESENT" when it comes to our family responsibilities.