In Africa, we like to say that a child may outgrow a father’s lap, but never his heart…. A father is the man who provides direction, the roof during life’s storms, and…
Today, I want to take a moment to honor our fathers. To every good father watching me, Happy Father’s Day in advance, and to every man carrying the burden of fatherhood, may your strength never fail.
Another African proverb says, “A father’s wealth is not in his pocket, but in the character of his children.”
Understanding the True Meaning of ‘Father’
Today, let us dissect and understand the true meaning of father by each letter:
F stands for Foundation: A father is the foundation of a home. If the foundation is shaky, the home trembles. Just like a tree’s strength comes from its deep roots, a father’s values form the roots of his family. Without a solid foundation, a home cannot stand.
A stands for Authority with Love: True fatherhood embodies authority not with fear, but with love. The analogy of a shepherd leading his flock represents this well. A father should lead with both discipline and compassion. Children should respect their fathers, not fear them.
T stands for Teacher: A father is the first life teacher. By living by example, a father instills values in his children. If a father lies, his children will learn to do the same. If he shows integrity, his children will grow up to be honorable.
H stands for Hard Work: A father models hard work. Provision is an integral part of fatherhood, and children must learn that nothing worthwhile is achieved without effort.
E stands for Encourager: Fathers play a crucial role in encouraging their children. Although many adults still yearn to hear affirmations like “I am proud of you,” it is a father’s words that help children grow. Speak life into them.
R stands for Responsibility: A father shoulders responsibility—not just financial, but also in ensuring peace, protection, and presence in the family. Responsibility is the true crown of fatherhood.
Responsibility and Legacy
Being a father is not merely a matter of biology, but one of responsibility, sacrifice, and legacy. Any man can produce a child, but not every man becomes a father. A true father’s legacy is one of wisdom and guidance, passing down not only goods but wisdom.
Embracing Newness of Life: A Spiritual Perspective
Apart from parenting, the essence of faith resonates with the responsibility of a father. A father’s guidance must align with spiritual values as we seek the “newness of life” that comes from Christ. As I reflect deeply on this, the insights from religious texts reinforce that faith comes by hearing and believing in teachings.
Living by Example
Sometimes, personal experiences offer invaluable lessons. I remember sneaking cigars from dancers in my parent’s house when I was young. My father set an example by not smoking despite the environment, and it taught me more than words could convey. As fathers, we must lead by example to instill integrity and truthfulness in our children.
The Teachings of Jesus Christ
Following Christ is challenging but deeply rewarding. Emulating Jesus Christ in our actions by being compassionate, responsible, and honest portrays the ideal father we aim to be.
Conclusion
Ultimately, let us strive to be the fathers our children will remember with pride, showing them the love and leadership that’s needed. To the fathers out there, thank you for your dedication and sacrifices. Happy Father’s Day to all fathers, and I urge every child to honor their father while he is still alive.
This year marks a milestone as Canada hosts this grand event for the first time, symbolizing a celebration that should be open to all, welcoming visitors from nations far and wide. With 48 countries represented, the World Cup promises to be an extraordinary spectacle watched by billions worldwide. Yet, it’s disheartening to see this year’s event clouded by a lack of hospitality and, unfortunately, greed.
The Significance of Hospitality
The notion of hospitality is timeless and profoundly significant, drawing parallels to a pivotal story from the Old Testament which we find in the letter of Paul to the Hebrews. One poignant verse admonishes us: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that, some have entertained angels without knowing it.” This struck a chord with me, linked to the iconic narrative of Abraham welcoming three strangers to his tent. In this tale, Abraham offers warmth and refreshment, while Sarah prepares a feast for them. To their surprise, these strangers reveal themselves as divine messengers prophesying that Sarah would bear a son, Isaac, and through him, many nations would be blessed.
Sarah’s initial disbelief at the news of bearing a child in her old age brings a relatable touch of humanity to the story, with her laughter symbolizing incredulity yet, in the end, God’s promise is fulfilled in an unexpected way. This instance underscores how hospitality is not just a mere act of kindness but a foundation stone for the Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
A Contrast to Modern Times
Hospitality, as illustrated in our sacred texts, stands in stark contrast to what we witness in contemporary society. After years of welcoming immigrants and refugees with open arms, we’re now experiencing a disturbing rise in violence and discrimination against those perceived as strangers. This hostility isn’t limited to one region; we’ve seen it in Gaza, the West Bank, Europe, and regrettably, within my own country, the United States.
In particular, the recent policies that deny entrance and basic rights to individuals based on race or ethnicity are highly troubling. I am deeply disturbed by the actions of agencies like ICE, who, without warrants or due process, are tearing families apart, placing people in appalling conditions. Furthermore, the deportation efforts of the Trump administration run counter to the teachings found in biblical scriptures. These actions diminish our compassion and unity, values that should be at the heart of our communities.
Hospitality as a Counter-Cultural Act
Challenging the status quo and the divisive figures of our world—from politicians in the US, China, and Russia, to the oligarchs such as Elon Musk—may seem like a daunting task. Yet, as a person of faith, I draw strength from Jesus’ teachings of peace and justice. In today’s gospel reading, Jesus empowers His disciples to spread the good news, to heal, teach, and exorcise unclean spirits, all without any provisions. They are sent into the world reliant on the hospitality of strangers, a risky endeavor that calls for wisdom and innocence.
This message of hospitality and understanding is radical, provoking opposition and resistance, especially from conventional religious establishments. Yet, it is this same spirit that helps build bridges across cultures and bring communities together.
Embracing Our Common Humanity
As we witness the World Cup, let us not just focus on the triumphs on the field, but also celebrate our collective humanity. I invite you to join me in offering gratitude for the warmth and hospitality we extend within our homes, communities, and faith groups. Together, let us honor God for the blessings entrusted to us and continue to cultivate spaces where strangers are welcomed warmly—not as unknowns, but as friends yet to be made.
