| May is a time to celebrate the unwavering love, sacrifice, and nurturing spirit of mothers – the women who shape hearts, build homes, and anchor families with grace and resilience. Their influence is lasting, their impact immeasurable, and their love a reflection of something deeply divine.
At the same time, we recognize that strong families are built not only on the love of mothers, but also on the presence and leadership of committed fathers and men. In a world that often blurs the lines of responsibility and identity, we remain grounded in a clear and purposeful call: to choose manhood with intention and to live it out with integrity.
Through our commitment to the 12 Principles of Manhood, taught in schools, we emphasize a simple but powerful truth: a man must decide to be a man and then act like one. This decision is not about perfection but about maturity, responsibility, and the courage to let go of what no longer serves growth. As I researched the 12 Principles taught, I noticed a caption by the author that gave Mothers a heartfelt thanks for guiding and supporting the men in his life.
As it is written in 1 Corinthians 13:1, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I thought as a child, I reasoned as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.”
This month, as we honor mothers, we also challenge and encourage men to rise, embrace maturity, lead with love, and model strength rooted in character. Because when men grow, families thrive. And when families thrive, communities are transformed.
On a personal note, recently my husband’s brother passed, leaving a wife and seven children, four sons and three daughters. During his brief illness, we watched his children exemplify his legacy. He was a believer in Jesus Christ, and his children will carry on that legacy. On many occasions, I heard them pray for their dad, asking God to heal and restore him to health. When the decision came that no family member wanted to make, they, together, allowed their faith to relent and give that honor to GOD. It was obvious that my brother-in-love and his wife had instilled in their children an unwavering faith.
As we prepare to celebrate our brother’s transition, I humbly reflect on the fathers served in our programs. It is my greatest hope that our fathers are beginning to recognize that they have been given the gift of children, each of whom require love, protection, guidance, and financial support. Through Families Matter’s programs, we help fathers understand their biblical role within their family structure. Thank you for your support and dedication in helping us reach fathers, build men, and create positive legacies for children.
Families Matter now more than ever. |