Foundations of Fatherhood
By Randall Colson | Matthew 3:13–17
As I prepare to become a father myself, I’ve been thinking a lot about what kind of dad I want to be. Truthfully, I’m excited, but I’m also nervous. I’ve spent over ten years in youth ministry, working with teens every week, but parenting is a whole new level of love, sacrifice, and faith.
This Father’s Day, I want to share a message from Matthew 3:13–17, where Jesus is baptized and God the Father speaks publicly for the first time in centuries. In that moment, God gives us a perfect picture of fatherhood.
Here are the three foundations I believe every father (and father figure) needs to build on:
1. Show Your Presence.
God doesn’t delegate the moment; He shows up. In a world that pulls us in a million directions, being there is one of the most powerful gifts we can give. Kids don’t just remember our advice; they remember our presence.
2. See the Possibilities.
God calls Jesus “My Son” before He ever performs a miracle. That tells me we don’t wait until our kids “earn it” to speak life into them. We remind them who they are and who they can be, no matter what.
3. Share Your Pride.
God says, “With Him I am well pleased.” He’s not proud because of what Jesus has done, He’s proud because He’s His. Our children need to hear that same affirmation, loud and often.
And ultimately, this message isn’t just for dads, it’s a reminder to all of us that we have a Heavenly Father who is present, who sees our potential, and who loves us deeply. That’s the kind of Father worth celebrating every day.
Randall Colson, Youth Minister
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