A Father’s Day Prayer: Reflections on Family and Faith
Father’s Day is a time for reflection, gratitude, and prayer. Jim McNeff, a father of three adult children, including two sons who affectionately call him “Pops,” shares a heartfelt prayer for fathers everywhere. Having navigated the unique challenges of raising a law enforcement family, McNeff offers a perspective seasoned with experience and deep faith.
Pops’ Father’s Day Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I humbly bow before Your throne of grace on this day to acknowledge:
- You are God Almighty, and I am not.
- I cannot be an earthly father without heavenly help.
- My inadequacy is evident, yet I am fully sufficient through You.
I give thanks:
- For the opportunity to be called Dad, Pops, and Papa.
- For the warmth and love shown by those who refer to me in these affectionate terms.
- For decades of giggles, laughs, hugs, and yes, even tears over the years.
- For memories that I hold dear from our lives together.
- For the spirit of thanksgiving that comes from a grateful heart.
- For a lifelong relationship with the mother of my children and “Mimi” to our grandkids.
- For grace that has been extended to every member of our family in one form or another.
I ask:
- For a shroud of protection surrounding those I love so much.
- Mercy for each one as we stumble.
- Wisdom to avoid the same obstacles that caused a fall.
- For character development as a priority over our physical comfort.
- An insatiable thirst for godly values.
- Our daily bread along with the ability to recognize when it arrives.
- An eternal perspective during the aging process.
- A spiritual connection that makes each one embrace a relationship with your Son.
- Illumination that shines truth on our lives.
- Eternal hope that is tangible, even though it’s untouchable.
Amen.
“Children are a gift from the Lord.” – King Solomon
May God bless you as you celebrate today with the Father(s) in your life.
– Jim McNeff
U.S. Air Force Public Affairs (Feature image)