Being Dad

Armando reflects on fatherhood as Father's Day approaches.

Photo by Ante Hamersmit on Unsplash

Being a dad is a daunting task. I don't fear much but I was so worried I would be a bad dad. I feared I would fail to lead my children in the ways I am called by God to lead them. Yet, I also knew I was going to try my best. I know I'm not alone. There are countless dads out there trying to be the dad God has called them to be. While it is also true that many dads in the church neglect their spiritual responsibilities, I know many strive to be the best dads they can be.

This weekend dads will get their day. They will get presents, a good meal, and spend time with their kids if they are able. Yet, as I think of Father's Day, I think about how much of a blessing it has been to be a dad. I think the thing I feared the most was messing up my kids, but being a dad is about teaching your kids how messed up we all are. It's about teaching them that we need Christ.

Instead, each of my kids has taught me so much. Well, being their dad has taught me so much. I've seen God's grace as I try to lead them and their mother.

For our children, we have never met; I loved you and anticipated seeing you. When I learned that I wouldn't in this life, I was reminded of the hope we have in the life to come. I was reminded through your short life that God will reverse the Curse of the Fall and one day, I will see you for the first time where there is no pain and no suffering. Your lives have taught me more than I could have taught you in a thousand lifetimes, and I know you're learning from a greater Father even now.

JoJo, being your dad has been such a joy. You have taught me how much work I still have to do in so many areas. You taught me to be diligent, patient (still working on that one), unfearing, and joyful. There are so many moments I can name that brings a smile to my face and a tear to my eye. Just wrestling with you on the couch as you giggle and pull me close is the best. Calling you “best bud” and you responding “best dad” is the best gift I could ever receive. You communicate in ways I have to key in on, so I've become more observant. You even watch me to see what mood I'm in. You try to make things better when I'm frustrated or stressed. We get our time together every day and I wouldn't trade it away for anything.

Selah, you're named appropriately. I pause and wonder how I am so blessed to be given such a wonderful gift from God. Your love for others and your longing for fellowship have taught me that I'm not meant to live life alone. You love your brother and advocate for him in ways I never had to teach. You softened me in ways I never thought possible. I hope I shadow my Heavenly Father the way you shadow me.

Karis, your joy reminds me life is not supposed to be bland. I should have known you would teach me that when you entered the world in the parking lot of a 7-11. Your smile is infectious. Your giggles and jokes always brighten our day. Your spirit reminds me life is meant to be enjoyed as a gift. You truly are a gift of grace.

Eden, I can't wait to meet you. Your life has reminded me that our God is in the Heavens and He does whatever He pleases. Your very life has reminded your mom and me that God is a gracious and powerful God. Your name is a reminder of what was lost in the Fall, but what will be renewed in the kingdom. I can't wait to learn from being your dad.

I know moms and children everywhere will be posting about what a great dad, the dads in their life are. But just know, many dads like me feel privileged to be called Dad.