Father's Day Reflection

Heading into Father’s Day, I’m sharing a personal part of my story because this day has always carried more than one emotion for me.

I was born in Pensacola, Florida in 1990. It is my understanding that my biological mother struggled with addiction, and I learned as a child that the man listed on my birth certificate was not my father.

I spent part of my childhood in Florida’s foster care system and lived in multiple homes. Through those years, faith in God was already deeply present in my life. I prayed daily for a permanent family.

In the late 1990s, with the help of my great aunt, I was adopted into a family with a mom, dad, and five siblings. I remain profoundly grateful for them and for the ways God sustained me through those years.

This weekend I’m celebrating my earthly father and giving thanks to God our Father. I’m also remembering children who are growing up without the security of a present father or permanent family.

Scripture repeatedly calls God’s people to care for the vulnerable. James 1:27 names care for orphans and widows as part of pure religion, and Psalm 68 describes God as a father to the fatherless.

May compassion become something we live: through prayer, giving, fostering, adopting, mentoring, serving, advocating, and faithfully responding in the ways God places before us.

xo,
Samantha