Sermon Summary – Father’s Day 2024
A Reflection on Fatherhood and Spiritual Leadership

Good morning, everyone, and Happy Father’s Day! Today, we gather not just to celebrate but to reflect on the sacred responsibility that comes with fatherhood. And yes, there’s a special treat after service—a free sausage sizzle for all fathers! For everyone else, well, you can still join in, because who hasn’t had a father? It’s a day to acknowledge and appreciate the role of fathers in our lives and in our communities.

Father’s Day is an opportune time to recognise the crucial role that fathers play within our families. In our increasingly dispersed and imperfect world, not everyone has the privilege of growing up with a father. Yet, we can find father figures within our congregations and communities—individuals who step into that role with love and commitment.

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15

The Sacred Responsibility of Fatherhood

Our scripture for today comes from Joshua 24:15, where Joshua, a leader of Israel, boldly declares, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” This verse is more than just a statement of faith; it’s a declaration of a father’s commitment to lead his family in the ways of God. It’s a commitment that every father can make, regardless of the imperfections or challenges they face.

Fatherhood is not without its difficulties, especially in a world that often downplays the importance of a father’s role. This morning, I happened to catch a segment on TV—a documentary, no less—that painted fathers in a rather negative light. It was a surprising choice for Father’s Day, to say the least, and it reminded me of the growing trend to minimize the value of fatherhood. Yet, despite these cultural shifts, the influence of a father remains profoundly significant.

The Impact of an Involved Father

Fathers have a tremendous impact on their children’s lives, affecting their emotional, behavioral, and spiritual development. Studies show that children with involved fathers are 43% less likely to repeat a grade and 33% less likely to drop out of school. They exhibit better emotional health, more self-control, and fewer behavioural problems. Academically, these children often perform better in reading, math, and problem-solving skills. Socially, they are more empathetic and form stronger friendships.

The long-term benefits are just as significant. Adults who had engaged fathers during childhood tend to have higher self-esteem, better mental health, and more stable relationships. There’s even a correlation between a father’s presence and a decrease in incarceration rates. In a world grappling with issues like youth crime, the absence of fathers can be a contributing factor. When fathers are involved, children are more likely to grow up with a strong sense of morality and ethical behavior.

Spiritual Leadership in the Home

Joshua’s declaration, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” is a call to fathers to be the spiritual leaders of their homes. In today’s world, fathers are called to be more than just providers and protectors; they are also the spiritual anchors of their families. This leadership is not limited to attending church on Sundays but involves daily prayer, teaching, and living out God’s word in front of their children.

A father’s commitment to serving the Lord has a profound impact on his family. When fathers attend church regularly, 33% of their children will continue to do so as adults, while only 2% will if their fathers do not. A father’s spiritual leadership strengthens the family unit, making the home a place of refuge, learning, and spiritual growth. This commitment also leaves a generational legacy, as a godly father plants seeds of faith that bear fruit for many generations.

The Role of Men in Society

Today, I also want to address an issue that is particularly relevant in our society—gender-based violence. It’s a problem that often gets highlighted, and rightly so. However, the solution is not just about protecting women but also about changing how men think and behave. Men are not just the problem; they must also be part of the solution. If we want to stop violence against women, we need to help men learn how to resolve their problems in loving and caring ways. Many men have never had a positive role model to follow, and they need guidance and support to change.

Men, you play a crucial role in your families and in society. Your commitment to God, your integrity, and your love for others are closely watched by your children. They learn how to live by watching you. As fathers, you must strive to live in such a way that your children see Christ in you.

Choosing Whom You Will Serve

Joshua’s challenge to the Israelites is a challenge for us today: “Choose today whom you will serve.” Fathers, this is a daily choice. The world offers many distractions, but we must continually choose to serve the Lord. This choice will define not only your life but the lives of those you lead.

Serving the Lord is not a one-time decision; it is a daily commitment. Every day, you must choose to lead your family in righteousness, to reject the idols of our culture, and to pursue God wholeheartedly. And you need to involve your family in this commitment. Joshua’s declaration included his entire household, and so should yours. Pray together, worship together, and serve together. Make your family’s faith journey a shared experience, not just a personal one.

A Legacy That Endures

As we celebrate Father’s Day, let us remember the profound responsibility and privilege that comes with fatherhood. Like Joshua, may we boldly declare, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Let this be our commitment today and every day, knowing that as we lead our families in faith, we are building a legacy that will stand the test of time.

Let us pray. Lord, we thank you for the fathers here today. We pray that you bless them, guide them, and give them the strength to lead their families in your ways. May their commitment to you be a beacon of hope and love for their children and for all those around them. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Thank you, everyone, and Happy Father’s Day once again.

Sermon Summary