I want to invite you to a free movie night at First Baptist Church on Friday, March 9. We’ll be showing “Courageous,” a compelling story of four police officers struggling with their faith and their roles as husbands and fathers. Our doors will open at 6:00 p.m. for refreshments (also free), and we’ll roll film at 7:00 p.m.
This movie speaks powerfully to people of every stage in life, but especially to fathers. That’s why we’re also offering free childcare during the movie, because we really want to encourage husbands and wives to come and see this together. And I’m sure your children will have a great time with our caring volunteers while you enjoy the show. If you need childcare please call the church office at 632-2488 so that we’ll be prepared.
It is clear that the absence of fathers from children’s lives profoundly and negatively impacts not only families, but communities and nations. Research continually bears this out. The website of the National Fatherhood Initiative includes several studies on this issue and finds that children who live without their biological fathers are, on average, at least two to three times more likely to be poor, to use drugs, to experience educational, health, emotional and behavioral problems, to be victims of child abuse, and to engage in criminal behaviors than their peers who live with their married biological (or adoptive) parents. You can check them out and learn more at http://www.fatherhood.org./
I remember reading a story some time ago about Hallmark. Prior to Mother’s Day the card-makers went into one of the federal prisons and gave away cards for the inmates to send to their mothers. As I recall there was so much interest that they ran out of cards. The event went so well they decided to do the same thing for Father’s Day. However, not one inmate came to get a free card to send to his dad. You get the picture?
You may also be interested to know that in 2006 the federal government spent $99.8 billion to provide assistance to father-absent homes. That’s a conservative estimate which does not include indirect costs related to some of the issues mentioned above.
The point is this: kids need dads. Communities need dads. Nations need dads. I have the utmost respect for single mothers who have been left to bear the responsibility for raising their children. I applaud their courageous efforts, and many do an outstanding job despite the obstacles. But even they would be quick to say their children need a dad.
It’s time for men to take responsibility for their families and homes. In the verse quoted above, Joshua was one such man. He understood the call for men to lead their families in the ways of the Lord. He also knew that many wouldn’t. But he courageously stood up before the nation of Israel and declared his allegiance to the Lord, and took responsibility for his house as well.
Men, if you’ve dropped the ball or let go of the wheel, let me say this to you: don’t quit. Maybe you haven’t been the husband or father you know you ought to be, but starting now you can begin to change things. Even if your children are grown and out on their own, what do you think it would mean to them to receive a letter or a call from their dad saying he’s sorry for messing things up, and wanting to make things right? Hearts may not be healed overnight, but don’t give up hope. Start somewhere. Seek the Lord’s help. Walls can be broken down. Relationships can be mended. Lives can be changed by the power of God’s grace and mercy. You can become the man God made you to be.
Come and see “Courageous” with us. This movie might just be the motivation you need to become a better father. As a church we want to help. We’d love to pray for you. Call our prayer-line anytime at 632-5937. Together, let’s be courageous!
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