Parents everywhere are celebrating; it is back to school time. I love the commercial for a office supply store playing the song, “Most wonderful time of the year” as a father rides a shopping cart. Yet many parents are not celebrating because they do not have the money for school supplies or school uniforms.

So what are we doing……hundreds of backpacks have been distributed and we are working with several generous folks to provide 500 students with a week’s worth of uniforms….a daunting task, but one we can accomplish with so many great friends.

Let me know what you think of uniforms….how can we better help our families…..let me know, open to any suggestions.

jay

Can I call you dad? That was the question asked of me by one of the children in our summer program. My heart broke as I heard what this young girl was saying: Will someone show me attention, will someone care for me, will someone give me some time?

I was humbled by that request and it sent my brain wandering through time, presenting many questions. I wondered how would my three wonderful children grade me? Do I give them time? Do I show I care for them? Do they know they matter to me? Would they recommend me as a dad?

I was blessed to have a wonderful father! A man who lived his faith! A man of integrity! A man who was there for me. Many times I grow weary in working all the hours and maybe doing extra jobs to make some extra money for school clothes, etc. When I grow weary I remember a dad who worked two jobs to provide for me and my two brothers… and never once complained. I can only wish to be the father he is.

Yet, I realize part of my job is not just leading Shepherd, but taking time to invest in the lives of those we serve, and take time for my own.

Maybe you have some time to come and pour some of yourself into the life of a child who needs filled up. Can I call you dad? What is your answer?

jay