Fathers carry a lot of responsibility. From providing for their families to keeping things in working order, fathers tend to carry the world's weight on their shoulders. This Father's Day, let's be sensitive to the dads who just need a break.
It can be difficult to know what dads really want on Father's Day, especially for dads who seem to have it all. There's often more to their wishes than just material gifts or celebrations, which include a desire for rest, connection, and appreciation.
This year, let's explore what dads really want on Father's Day and discover new and meaningful ways to celebrate the amazing men in our lives.
1. Rest From Responsibility
Fathers carry a lot of responsibility. From providing for their families to keeping things in working order, fathers tend to carry the world's weight on their shoulders. This Father's Day, let's be sensitive to the dads who just need a break. In fact, here are some ways we can take over some of their responsibilities and allow them a day of rest they desperately need.
-Allow them to sleep in as long as they want.
-Cook their favorite meal.
-Keep things neat and tidy.
-Set house projects aside.
-Let them decide on the agenda for the day - even if it's watching TV all day!
-Offer to take care of some of their weekly responsibilities, such as oil changes, errands, or yard work.
Giving the tired dad a guilt-free day of rest might be the best gift you could give. After all, everyone needs a break from time to time. Remember the Golden Rule from Luke 6:31, which says, "Do to others as you would have them do to you." Let's put this verse into practice this Father's Day by giving Dad a day of rest from responsibility.
A prayer for the weary dad:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the hardworking dads who provide for their families. What a gift they are to us! Please provide rest for the worn-out father, who just needs a day off. Help us give them all the time they need to sleep, relax, and enjoy their day. In Jesus' name, amen.
2. Quality Time with Family
How often do we plan big events or family outings on Father's Day without asking Dad what he would like to do? Many dads just want to spend quality time with their families in simple ways. This might include:
-Playing frisbee at the park
-Taking a drive
-Going for ice cream
-Fishing
-Watching movies as a family
-Going on a bike ride
While bigger celebrations can be fun on Father's Day, the more relaxed activities often bring the most joy. So be sure to ask the father figure in your life how he would like to spend the day. More often than not, he'll be content spending quality time in a relaxed, carefree way.
A prayer for quality family time:
Lord, please unite families this Father's Day and help them spend quality time together. Whether it's playing board games or having a backyard BBQ, bring the unity dads desire and bless them with a relaxed and peaceful celebration. In Jesus' holy name, amen.
3. Recognition and Appreciation
Often, life keeps us too busy to stop and recognize Dad's invaluable role. That's why heartfelt appreciation will go a long way on Father's Day and let dads know how appreciated they are. Of course, this is a good thing to do no matter what day of the year it is, but Father's Day is an especially important day to recognize him for his contributions to the family.
Here are a few ways to verbalize your appreciation for Dad on Father's Day:
"I appreciate all the sacrifices you've made for our family, Dad. Your hard work is not unnoticed."
"I don't say it enough, but I love and admire you so much, Dad. Happy Father's Day!"
"Thank you for showing us what unconditional love looks like, Dad. You're a true example of God's love."
"There's no one else in the world like you, Dad. You're one of a kind, and we love you."
When we take time to notice how valuable dads are, we'll gain a better appreciation for all they do. Everyone needs to hear words of affirmation from time to time, and Father's Day is a great day to start a new habit. Make your dad a priority this year, and give him the recognition he deserves.
A prayer for appreciation:
Gracious God, please help dads everywhere feel loved and appreciated this Father's Day. Show us how to give them the recognition they deserve. Help us notice the big and small things they do for our families. Most importantly, prompt us to tell them how much they mean to us. In Jesus' name, amen.
4. A Gift That Encourages His Strengths and Interests
When searching for the most popular gifts to give on Father's Day, most articles feature common items such as gadgets, t-shirts, ball caps, and electronics. And certainly, these can make for some great gifts!
But what about finding something that encourages his strengths in a more meaningful way? For example:
-If he's into fitness, consider a Bible devotion for athletes.
-If he enjoys cooking, gift him a set of new and exotic spices.
-If he works on cars, buy him a ticket to a vintage car show.
-If he likes coffee, consider a gourmet coffee subscription.
The options are endless when it comes to thinking of meaningful gifts that fit Dad’s interests. And what a surprise it will be for him to receive something other than a ball cap!
A prayer for a meaningful Father’s Day:
Lord God, please let this Father’s Day be special for every dad. No matter what gifts they receive, help them feel loved and celebrated for the amazing men they are. Provide time for families to rest and be together, to appreciate one another, and to exchange meaningful gifts their dads will truly enjoy. I pray these things in Jesus’ name, amen.
