David Vipperman and I were reminiscing at lunch Sunday about the time he flew Kathy Bigham and me to Hilton Head Island to meet with community leaders to discuss our efforts to rid SC of video poker. He had been a pilot since his military days and been around the world. I mentioned that our son-in-law was in the Air Force and they would be moving to Italy in July, taking our only grandson with them…and we were already experiencing some grief at the prospect of their absence.

After saying he understood, he then added something I thought was very wise. He said he’d rather his children live far away and be happy than live next door and be miserable.

Take moment and reflect on that statement.

David always speaks with kindness and gentleness, so he mentioned twice that he knew I already knew this and he didn’t have to tell me. But I’m glad he did tell me.

Father’s Day is Sunday and it’s a good time for all of us to reflect on family. We can easily fall into the trap of being more concerned with what “I” want than what is best for those I love. It comes naturally for us to think of ourselves first. Love, especially great love, takes intentional choice and effort.

On this Father’s Day, make the special man in your life feel really special. After all, his happiness should be what you want. Remember that love is about meeting the needs of those we love, not about using them to meet our needs.

Pastor Steve Hogg