Fathers - Heroes or Obligators? BY SUSAN HARRIS

We’ll never know how Snow White or Hansel and Gretel’s lives might have played out if their father had echoed the words of the Lord Almighty, "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters," 2 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV) 

Photo from Google Images

Invariably, the fairy tales have portrayed fathers as dead, absent or weak, giving in to a domineering stepmother (which has indoctrinated a negative stereotype of stepmothers and which is a whole different discussion outside this blog). Barring Beauty and the Beast, the fathers have fallen short badly.  As a result the children suffered. 

We still see a number of children neglected and abandoned by fathers, but unlike Snow White, the squirrels and deer have not helped with housework or recreation. Fortunately, we have seen better – foster dads, step dads, adopted dads and responsible male figures who have stepped in to feed, educate and heal those boys and girls. In these fine men we denounce the myth of the fairy tales and embrace the wonder of the love of Father God. Through men like these children can understand the abstract concept of Jehoveh Jireh our Provider until they can understand the faith walk for themselves.

Photo from Google Images

 Today, June 17, 2018, is Fathers Day.  I grew up with a father who cared for his offspring. That he did is not heroism - it is obligation! Much credit is to be given to men who hold fast to their responsibility. 

But men who did not produce children biologically, yet show compassion, and give up their resources to raise other people’s children, are the true heroes. I salute your goodness, your kindness. Your true love. 

Happy Fathers Day.

Susan Harris is an international speaker, teacher and the author of 12 books. www.susanharris.ca