The mark of a father

As a nation we take this weekend to recognize fathers. Fathers play an important role in shaping our culture. Their influence passes from generation to generation. We each bear the image and mark of our fathers. Each of us carry this image with us even to the extent that those who do not know their fathers carry a mental picture of what a father should have been. Fatherhood is not merely an institution or an opportunity to sell gifts and cards but an intentional action-oriented choice that is carried on for generations to come.

Much of the book of Proverbs describes the intentional activity of fathers. Sections are written from a father to his son encouraging him to listen and not forsake his instruction. Scripture commands fathers to be intentional about their parenting with their children. Scripture also gives examples of what happens to children when a father is disengaged and does not discipline them. Accompanied with these are examples of fathers who are active in their children's lives but, like all of us, make tremendous errors and are forced to deal with the consequences. For fatherhood lets us know that God intended fatherhood not to be the model of the sitcoms we love so much where the father is either in trouble, getting out of trouble or having to rely upon his children -- who seem to be the smartest people in the family -- to help him. But rather God intends the blessing of fatherhood to be engaging and intentional.

Only you can be the father you wanted to have and be. While that sounds similar to the classic Army slogan the scriptural truth rings true. We all will bear the mark and influence of our parents on our lives whether our relationship with them was rocky or Norman Rockwell. We each decide if we will listen to the Heavenly Father's instruction for the way that we live. God the Father proclaims, "Listen to my instruction, hold on to and apply my words."

We make decisions throughout the day as to whether we will live according to our father's instructions. We hold the responsibility in our hands as to how we will live.

Having children is a tremendous blessing. Fatherhood is a rewarding choice. Only you can be the father you wanted to have and be.

Rob Hurtgen is a husband, father and serves as the associate pastor at the First Baptist Church in Jackson.