From the Pen of the Pastor June 2021

  The Lord told Joshua, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9).

   News reports would have us believe that within our communities we do not have any good, strong, Black Fathers. I beg to differ. We may not be on the front pages of Time or People Magazine, our names may not grace the pages of Sports Illustrated, but we exist. We will always exist. Social media enhances our failures and diminishes are successes; but we will not let that shape who we are.

   When I say strong, I am going beyond physical strength. I am referring to spiritual strength. Yes, although physical strength is important in being a father, spiritual strength is even more important. It is our spiritual strength that allows us to take a licking and keep on ticking.

   The late John Wooden, who coached the UCLA Bruins Basketball team for nearly 30 years said, “Physical strength is measured by what one can carry; spiritual strength is measured by what one can bear.” As a father it is good to be able to rake the leaves, shovel the snow, and take out the trash. But it is more important to share in your child’s victories, as well as share in their defeats; to encourage your child when they are doing well and when they are not doing well. It takes spiritual strength to push your child forward when the world is pushing you backwards.

   How are we doing it day in and day out? We do it because we have God on our side. God gives us the strength to endure, persevere and succeed. God was with Joshua, and God will be with you! Continue to be a strong Black Father, but do not try it alone. . . try it with God.

Be Encouraged. Walk in Excellence. Speak Life.