TIME TO DANCE WITH YOUR FATHER AGAIN

"He came to his own country, but his own people did not receive him. Some, however, did receive him and believed in him; so he gave them the right to become God's children. They did not become God's children by natural means, that is, by being born as the children of a human father; God himself was their Father" -  John 1: 11 - 13 (Good News )

"A Father Indeed" was one of the Father's Day sermon preached in our church few years ago. The sermon always reminds me of the lyrics of an award winning song titled "Dance With My Father" which was composed by Luther Vandross in June 2003. In that song, Luther described how his father used to dance with him and his mother; how he loved and cared passionately for them; how he taught him morals and godly virtues, and how to respect and obey his mother. The family really missed the old man to the extent that fifty years after he had passed on, they still wish that God would bring him back to continue his good works. There is no doubt that Luther's father left behind some indelible marks of deep affection and unflinching devotion on the heart of his family. Hence, he was greatly missed and they are very proud of him? Is your father like Luther's father or better than him or his direct opposite ? Do you have good memories of your father? Is he a father indeed or just a father? Will you really miss him when he's gone? 

Many people are not privileged to have fond memories of their fathers like Luther. Some fathers are not as loving, caring and responsible as they ought to. Some abandoned their family while others passed on early in life leaving huge vacuum behind. Unfortunately, I belong to the later category. When my father died on 7 July 1976, I was still a little boy. He left a huge vacuum in my life that nobody could fill until I had a strange encounter with the Father of all fathers during my first year in the higher institution. The encounter opened a new chapter for me as the Father of all fathers graciously rescued me, washed me clean, showed me real love and gave me what no earthly father can afford - The Holy Spirit. Friends, have you had an encounter with the Father of all fathers too? Have received that precious gift that only God the Father can give?. If you have not, then, please ask for the gift now (Luke 11:13) 

"If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?"- Luke  11:13 (KJV)

Fathers, are you sure your children are proud of you like Luther Vandross? Will they wish that you live forever to be their father? Can they see the attribute of "a father indeed" in you? Can your relationship with their mother teach them the meaning of a Godly Marriage and Happy Home? Hope you have not walked away from your family? When you grow old and eventually pass on, how will you be remembered by your children and wife? How sweet will your memories be? If your response is not positive,  then, I urge you to please amend your ways today. 

Children, are you also proud of your father? Why not celebrate your father and all the father figures in your life during this year's Father's Day Celebration. They really deserve to be honoured and celebrated. However, in case you never experienced the care and love of a biological father while growing up like my humble self, today, God wants you to know that He loves you. You are very dear and precious to Him. The love you long for can be found in Him. His love by far exceeds the love any person can offer you. If you can accept the invitation in John 1:11-13, God will become your Father and your life will never remain the same again.  

"Father to the fatherless, defender of widows—this is God, whose dwelling is holy.” Psalm 68: 5 (NLT)

My prayers for all fathers is that, God will give you all that you need to become a father indeed. You will live long to eat the fruits of your labour. I pray for all mothers/women, the crown on your head will not drop prematurely. The captain of your ship will not sink in the ocean of life. And I pray for all widows, God will stand by you, provide your needs and help you to raise your children to become mighty arrows in your hands. You will not sorrow over any of your children in life. God will send help to you from the four corners of the earth and the defenders of widow will defend you in Jesus name.  Amen.  

Beloved, it is time to play your Dad's favourite song and dance with him again if still alive. In honour of all the great fathers who left indelible marks behind like Luther's, mine and yours, let us celebrate this year's Father's Day occasion by singing the award winning song below:

DANCE WITH MY FATHER

Back when I was a child, before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high and dance with my mother and me and then spin me around 'til I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure I was loved

If I could get another chance, another walk, another dance with him
I'd play a song that would never, ever end
How I'd love, love, love
To dance with my father again

When I and my mother would disagree
To get my way, I would run from her to him
He'd make me laugh just to comfort me
Then finally make me do just what my mama said

Later that night when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he would be gone from me

If I could steal one final glance, one final step, one final dance with him
I'd play a song that would never, ever end
'Cause I'd love, love, love
To dance with my father again

Sometimes I'd listen outside her door
And I'd hear how my mama cried for him
I pray for her even more than me
I pray for her even more than me

I know I'm praying for much too much
But could You send back the only man she loved?
I know You don't do it usually
But, dear Lord, she's dying
To dance with my father again

Every night I fall asleep and this is all I ever dream

My prayer for every home that has been besieged by the wild wind of separation and divorce, is that the Father of all fathers will calm the raging storm before this month is over. Songs of restoration and reconciliation will come forth in those home and God the Father will be glorified in Jesus mighty name. Amen. 

Good morning and Happy Father's Day in advance.

Maranatha!

Bro. Okanlawon Taiwo

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