The Father Children Dream Of

THE FATHER CHILDREN DREAM OF

A good father becomes a hero to his children. It’s not uncommon for a child to answer, when asked what they want to be when they grow up, “I want to be like my dad.” However, the image of a father can fade away if he fails to be a role model. Not only might he be disliked, but he may also become someone his children are ashamed to acknowledge. Here are key points about the kind of father children dream of, using the acronym F.A.T.H.E.R. (translated from A.Y.A.H. in Indonesian):

A – Accountable (Adil / Just)

The ideal father is just and impartial, treating all his children with love and fairness. He loves each of his children equally, never showing favoritism, and always seeks to bring joy to their hearts.

“And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

(Ephesians 6:4)

Y – Yielding to God (Yakin pada Tuhan / Trust in God)

A role-model father is one who trusts and believes in God, leading his children to rely on God in their lives. A father who trusts in God prays for his children, desiring not only their success in life but also their faithfulness to God.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.”

(Proverbs 3:5)

A – Actively Guiding (Aktif Membimbing)

A good father is actively involved in guiding, teaching, and advising his children with love and wisdom. He doesn’t just provide money or material things, but also teaches his children the truth of God’s word and leads by example.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

(Proverbs 22:6)

H – Heartfully Present (Hadir Sepenuh Hati)

The ideal father is always present, both physically and emotionally, giving his time, attention, and love to his children. A father’s attention is needed both near and far; he truly understands his children’s needs, not just managing or scolding them.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”

(1 Corinthians 13:4)

Let us, on this Father’s Day, reflect on ourselves: have we become the father our children dream of? No father is perfect—even in the Bible, examples are not flawless. Yet, the parable of the prodigal son gives us a model of a father who is longed for by his child: a father who holds no grudges, but forgives; who always gives and desires the best for his child. You can be that father!

Sunday, June 15, 2025, FATHERS DAY

By Rev. Saumiman Saud – CEBC Indo San Francisco