The direct approach leaves no room for misinterpretation

A lady once invited her pastor and his family for Sunday dinner. After working hard preparing the meal, she called everyone to the table. The privilege of saying grace fell to her 4-year-old daughter, who was uncertain what to say.

Coaching the young lady, the pastor suggested she pray what she had heard her mother say in the past. With that, the little girl began, “O Lord! Why did I ever invite all these people for dinner?”

One never knows what a child will say, as they often speak without benefit of tact. Their forthright expressions embarrass us because they mirror the truth.

What if your child was asked, “Does your father love you?” How would they answer?

Sadly, many fathers use indirect messages to share this very important truth with their children. They provide food, clothing, toys, etc., but seldom words or affection.

I remember the lament of a lady I was counseling, having grown up with indirect messages from her father.

“I did not care if he bought me anything. I did not want his stuff! All I wanted to hear him say was ‘I love you.’ All I ever wanted was a hug.”

Dads, indirect messages are easily misinterpreted. What our children need are direct expressions in both word and deed.

When it comes to sharing our love with our children, let’s make it obvious. Look them in the eye, say “I love you” and give them a hug.

It is never too late.

Pastor Mark Holmes is an ordained minister in the Wesleyan Church and has served the Darrow Road Wesleyan Church since 1997.

Tags: community, religion, family