In my most recent blog, I wrote about fatherlessness and its effect on children.  I also discussed how fathers who are absent, literally or emotionally, are themselves missing out on the blessings that come from fulfilling their roles.

Let's be honest, though.  Fatherlessness is not going away in our culture any time soon.  So what is the church's responsibility?  Scripture calls God a 'father to the fatherless'.  It also says the church is His 'body' on earth.  If God is to be a father to the fatherless, and we are His physical representatives here in this life, then we (especially Christian men) need to step up and be 'Jesus in skin' to any hurting young people sent our way.  We are His physical ears for those who need to talk; His physical arms for those who need a hug; His physical mouth for those who need encouragement, correction or instruction; His physical eyes to for those who need someone watching their backs.

Specifically, what might this look like?  Mentoring; leading or assisting in Sunday schools and youth groups; coaching; tutoring; encouraging our kids to invite other kids over for family events; praying; providing a safe place; a compassionate ear.  

We have many young people who have entered into these types of relationships with our family.  Some are teens, some are now in their thirties.  Some are married, some are parents.  Some have redeemed relationships with their earthly dads, some will never see their dads again.  Yet in every one of these friendships, god has proven once again that we always receive back more than we give.  The young men and women i'm alluding to are loyal friends, amazing older siblings to our girls, and proof that our Father in Heaven will never leave us or forsake us.