This Father’s Day, I find myself feeling especially grateful—and reflective.

I recently snapped a photo of my dad sitting on his rollator. He was in good spirits, as he often is, but it’s hard to miss the signs of age catching up with him. The picture made me pause. It reminded me of a simple but sobering truth: our days are numbered.
We all grow old. We all grow weak—if we’re fortunate enough to live that long. And for those who don’t, life has its own way of reminding us how fragile it is. Either way, we don’t get to stay here forever. The time we have with the people we love is precious—and painfully limited.
Being a father has taught me that more than anything else. It’s given me purpose. It’s brought me joy I never could have imagined. And it’s made me incredibly thankful—not just for my kids, but for the father figures in my life who helped shape me.
My dad isn’t perfect—none of us are—but he’s shown me so much of what it means to be a man, a father, and a reflection of God’s character. He’s loving, but he doesn’t tolerate evil. He’s full of grace, mercy, and forgiveness, yet he believes in justice and isn’t afraid to express righteous anger. He’s funny and compassionate—sometimes in the same breath he’s being insulting or blunt. It’s complicated. And real. And beautiful.
I could say the same of my father-in-law and many other men—coaches, teachers, mentors, and friends—who have had tremendous influence on my life. Each of them, in their own imperfect way, has helped me understand that being a father is about so much more than providing, protecting, and guiding.
It’s about reflecting the image and character of God to those around us—especially our families. It’s about showing what it means to live with integrity, humility, strength, and love. That’s a big role to carry. An overwhelming responsibility. But also one of the greatest honors of this life.
As I look at that photo of my dad, I’m reminded to cherish the time we still have together. To use it wisely. To love deeply, live intentionally, and lead well—not just as a father, but as a son, a husband, a friend, a man.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads and father figures out there. May we live every day with purpose—and make the most of the time we’ve been given.