Matthew 3:17
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Growing up, as the eldest son, and being the namesake of my father, I felt a little pressure to do well. Added to this was the fact from the 7th grade through graduation, I attended private schools and I was most often the only black student in my class or the entire school.
I was active in school. I played basketball and baseball, and I ran track and sang in the school choir. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately) my parents were rarely able to attend my games or performances. My father worked two and three jobs to support our family and my mother had declining health issues.
One of my father’s jobs included owning and operating a barbershop. Often, I would overhear him telling his customers that his oldest son was the starting point guard for the team, and he scored “X” number of points. I would smile as I heard him boast.
There was one game I still recall some forty years later. My parents came to the game and didn’t tell me they planned to attend. Several of my teammates asked me if the people in the bleachers my parents were (that should have been an easy call). When I looked up and saw them, I felt all kinds of emotions. I was elated that they were there. I was nervous that I wouldn’t perform up to the standards they expected. I was proud that they made time to come and watch me play. I wanted to make them proud!
Have you ever thought if this crossed Jesus’ mind as He served? From answering questions in the temple (at the age of 12), to being baptized, He seemed determined to do the will of His Father. I believe we should have the same spirit today. I enjoy attending our denomination’s annual Holy Convocation and April Call Meeting with my dad (he’s 85 years old). I am proud to introduce him to my friends and colleagues. We talk every morning and I enjoy telling him about things I am involved in.
I also have a spiritual father – my pastor, Bishop Ted Thomas. I enjoy working with him and completing tasks successfully. I get tremendous pleasure when he says with a gruff, but caring voice, “…Brother Pruitte, you did a fine job.”
We have been blessed with four beautiful daughters and several others in our congregation that look up to my wife and me. I make sure I take time to listen about their promotions, successes, and accomplishments. I try to send them congratulatory messages and publicly praise them! Why do I do this? Because I believe God gave fathers something special when it comes to celebrating their children. Don’t get me wrong: I loved my mother and I miss her dearly, but there was nothing like hearing my dad brag on me.
I long for the day when I will hear my heavenly Father brag on me. I long to hear Him say, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” I want to make Him proud!!
Happy Father’s Day!