Galatians 4:6 – Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!”

Sometimes I think dads get the short end of the stick.  Mother’s Day is known for the high number of phone calls home and restaurants are packed on that day with those who want to make sure mom get a great meal but doesn’t have to cook.  True, in a family where the kids are all biologically related, mom does all the heavy lifting – literally! – through the entire pregnancy.  But there are some awesome dads out there who deserve some recognition.

To the new dad – I see you.  You may feel forgotten in all the fuss surrounding the new baby and mama.  But I see the overpowering love in your eyes, the gentle way you cradle your newborn, and the change in the way you look at the woman who made you a father.  It’s obvious you’re proud of your new role.  Your instincts will be very different than mama’s.  But they have value and shouldn’t be ignored.

To the step-dad who calls them “my kids” – You didn’t have to step up and behave like a caring dad.  But I have a crazy amount of respect for your willingness to do so.  Those kids are lucky to have you.  I know your role isn’t an easy one.  But the payoff down the road will definitely be worth it.

To the adoptive dad – You’ve made a powerful, loving choice that beautifully reflects our Heavenly Father’s attitude toward us.  Right from the start, you’ve shown your child (or children) exactly what unconditional love looks like.  You’ve shown them that love is a choice and needn’t be dictated by emotions or circumstance.

To the man who longs to be a father but hasn’t had the chance – I can’t even begin to understand what you are feeling.  But I do know that your passion to nurture a child will not be wasted.  keep walking faithfully, secure in the knowledge that God fully intends to use that passion to impact lives for His kingdom.

To those uncles, grandfathers, and others who have filled the role of “dad” – “Thank you” seems so insufficient.  You stepped up in a meaningful way and impacted your corner of the world in ways that you may not even realize.  Your actions have been a vivid reflection of the Father’s love for his children and our world will be better for your choices.

Proverbs 20:7 – The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.