“My dad and mom gave me two Christmas gifts that prove they
do not get me” declared this young lady who was obviously bewildered by her
parents. I could not hide my amazement and blurted out, “Oh wow! What did
you do?” As she explained, this college student talked about her daily
Bible reading and a habit I will never forget.
Just after Christmas, I was returning from a trip and
boarded my flight. I purposely sit on the right side next to a window so I can
lean my head over against the wall and rest or nap. But, a nap was not to be
that day. Seated in the middle seat next to me was a young lady who reminded me
of my daughter: similar age, attire, and spunky attitude. After the
pleasantries of greeting and helping find the ever elusive seat belts, she told
me she was a college student returning after Christmas break and I shared that
I worked for a Christian Publisher (I rarely disclose that I am the CEO). I
told her I have a daughter near her age who has finished her undergrad. The
combination of opening the door with my faith and working in ministry allowed
her to open up about a recent experience she had with her parents.
She was asked by a friend to attend a small group and church
near her university. She went and within a short time became a new Christ
follower about a year and a half ago. Her parents are not believers and never
made church part of their life. Her parents thought this was a fad even though
she shared her faith with them. They ignored her evangelistic efforts and
apparently the content as well. In spite of her persistence for 18 months, her
mom and dad bought her two Christmas gifts that proved they still failed to
understand her faith and Christianity—a small Buddha statue and a New Age book,
which to them were gifts that reflected spirituality. When she told me, I could
hardly believe the gesture on their part.
We talked about family ministry and what D6 was all about.
She described her Bible readings and told me something that broke my heart in a
way I will never forget. She said, “Every time I read the word ‘Father’ for
God, I mark through it and write above it ‘Friend,’ because I don’t want to
think of my Heavenly Father in ways that remind me of the poor relationship
with my dad.” Oh, my! I have often repeated what various professors told me way
back in the day—“We often derive our view of our Heavenly Father based on our
view of our earthly father.” Not everyone had a father or mother figure who was
grounded in the faith and encouraged us as we grew up. Some cycles need to be
broken in order to develop godly generational disciples that offer kids and
grandkids a legacy to be proud of instead of marking through the word “Father.”
As you approach Father’s Day, some of you have had great examples, others not so much. Some of you no longer have dad with you in this world, and others can connect at any time. This week—remember, celebrate, and honor dad. But, also connect, celebrate, and honor our Heavenly Father! He parents us with high expectations and an equal amount of grace.
Dr. Ron Hunter
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