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Dear friends,

One of the great examples of what a father should be can be found in the story of the Prodigal Son found in Luke 15:11ff. Here are some things that fathers can learn from the Father of the Prodigal Son:

First, he treated his sons equally. The passage says that when the father divided his estate to the two sons, “he divided his property between them.” Fathers should learn from this example. We should not discriminate our children or favor one child over the other or others. Fathers should be fair in dealing with their children.

Second, he was a generous person. The story tells us that when the Prodigal Son came into his senses he said, “How many of my father’s hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!” This shows that children are observing their fathers. They can see if their father is generous, kind or not. Fathers must be good examples to children by being kindhearted to other people.

Third, he was a prayerful and hopeful father. When the Prodigal Son decided to return, the story says that his father was waiting for him. If the father has forgotten his son, then he would not be waiting for him. He most probably prayed for his son’s return and was hoping day and night that his son would come back. Fathers should always pray for their children, and hope for a brighter future for them.

Fourth, he was expressive of his love. The story tells us that when he saw his son, “he ran to him, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” After this, he put on the best robe to his son and ordered a celebration. How many fathers do that to their children nowadays? Are we excited in seeing our children? Do we kiss them and hug them in order to let them know that we love them? Do we celebrate the milestones of their lives? Let us pray that the fathers of this generation will be expressive of their love to their children.

Happy Father’s Day to all fathers!

Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on

#SeedsOfFaith

#BinhiSangPagtuo

June 18, 2018

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Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director
Office of Communications
Central Philippine University