Three Things I’ve Learned About the Father Leading up to My First Father’s Day

Four weeks ago, I stepped into fatherhood when my wife gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. Each day feels like a blur, yet a gift as we navigate our new lives together. Between gentle forehead kisses, countless diaper changes and ceaseless prayer, I have learned plenty about my son, myself and my Heavenly Father. The Awana Editorial Team has invited me to reflect on this season in advance of my first Father’s Day. Here are three things I have learned about the Father, as a new daddy myself.

The Provision of God’s Love

Hours after my child’s grand entrance, my wife and I sat quietly in the recovery suite, gazing into the deep blue eyes of our firstborn. The Holy Spirit prompted me to play a song, “Psalm 23,” by Zach Winters. Many nights during pregnancy, I prayed this passage over our child in the womb. For the first time, my son could see the face of the mysterious voice who so often spoke over him, just as I could now see him. God’s image is evident in his face.

The delicate acoustic riff began as my wife and I locked eyes. God anointed my spouse to be a mother and me a father. We wept joyfully as we praised the Lord for our son’s long-anticipated debut, our tears resembling oil. Our cups certainly overflowed. Never had we so intensely experienced God’s love and provision.

From that night forward, I have continued the practice of reading a Psalm over my son each night. There is nothing I enjoy more than sitting with God and our little one in our bedroom, delighting in the presence of one another.

The Generosity of God’s Love

Each Father’s Day, I shower my dad with gifts in my best effort to celebrate him and all he has done for me. His love and support far outweigh any tangible gift I can give him, whether a new gadget or grill. Perhaps that is why he insists we skip past the gifts and simply spend time together.

My son is not capable of much at four weeks old, yet there is nothing I enjoy more than being in his presence. I take such delight in caring for him and simply being with him. Like my earthly dad, my Heavenly Father delights in my desiring of His presence. It is all starting to make sense now.

This year my dad is traveling across the country to meet his grandson. I expect this year’s gift will be the best I have given him yet!

The Immeasurable Depth of God’s Love

When I stare at my child, I see his ten fingers and toes, each in their proper place. I see his cute button nose and adorable chin. I also see God and the way He so intentionally knit my son together in Sam’s womb. Just as God is my Father, I am now a dad myself.

Shortly after we returned home, another song brought intense emotion, this time via a shuffled playlist. “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us …” emerged from the speakers.

“How vast beyond all measure, that He should give His only Son. …”

Here I stood holding my only son. I have never loved anyone or anything so much. Yet God loves me (and each of us) so much that He gave His only Son away. His wounds have paid our ransom. The crucifixion of our Lord and Savior has never felt so real.

As we approach Father’s Day, I pray the provision, generosity and immeasurable depth of God’s enduring love will become tangible for you, too.