O, My Father

O, My Father, sung by the Tabernacle Choir

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!! I want to brag for just a minute about my dad. Ok, not brag; but share the deep love and gratitude I feel on Father's Day because of my dad and how he has helped me build a beautiful relationship with my Heavenly Father. I've always felt that my dad was the perfect dad. Let me clarify what I mean by "perfect". First off, I've got a pretty darn good-looking dad! I've always thought that if i'd been around him in my dating years, I would've had a big crush on him! haha 😄 Second; Love. My dad's love is genuine; 100%. Never in my life have I had to question if he loved me. No matter how old I get, when he wraps me up in his hug, I feel like I'm still his little girl and could just snuggle on his lap! I'm just wrapped in his immense, unconditional love! Also my dad's love for others is incredible to me. He loves and respects everyone he sees. When he shakes your hand you will feel his love for you as a child of God. He always goes out of his way to serve others. Third, his love for and devotion to God and Christ. My favorite memories with my dad are the countless times; at home, in the car, over the phone, playing games, whenever; when he would draw into the conversations wisdom and council of the Gospel; of Christ's atonement, of Heavenly Father, or of the Priesthood and the covenants we make with God in the Temple. He's always been a great leader and example to me of faith in Jesus Christ and in the Gospel. Fourth, my dad's unquestionable love and respect for my mom. My dad loves spending time with mom. He always speaks of her with great respect--I've never once heard him say anything demeaning or unkind to her or of her. He serves and helps my mom in the home when he's able. He (and my mom) keeps the marriage covenants they made in the temple and helps exemplify to me what an eternal marriage looks like. Fifth, my dad is fun! I LOVE to play with my dad! Card games, sports, telling goofy jokes, Racing remote control cars, going swimming; you name it! Work hard and play hard! He always makes time to play with the kids (or grandkids now!). Sharing smiles and laughter is one of his greatest skills. As you can see, I love my dad. I also love my Heavenly Dad; Heavenly Father. My dad here has given me a model to help me know my Heavenly Father. God, our Father, chose the title "Father" over any other titles. His love for us as His sons and daughters is incredible, immense, imperishable and infinite! Heavenly Father always has time for us. He will listen to your prayers and give the greatest--and often the simplest--council and wisdom. He keeps His promises. He is a great leader and example to me in my life. I would also venture to add my opinion that God has a sense of humor. There are some things in this life He's given us that are just funny--like how babies always unroll the toilet paper, or drop your phone in the toilet...again; or how hiccups are just plain silly. Isn't it beautiful that smiles and laughter can unite people no matter our temporal differences? I'm so glad He gave us laughter. God is our Father. He loves us and His plan of happiness is the path to true happiness in this life and the next. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.