Infusion...to inform and to inspire


Honoring Your Father

This Sunday many of us will be going to family celebrations that honor our fathers. Even if
we aren’t celebrating, we will be surrounded with many reminders (TV ads will make
certain!) that turn our thoughts to the men who raised us and, in so many ways, made us
the people we are today. Like Mother’s Day in June, this national holiday causes us to look
back, remember our parents, and gives us an opportunity to express our thanks and love.
It’s fitting that FPC, through the messages of our pastor, is studying the book of Proverbs as we observe this Father’s Day. Line after line in this book of the Bible admonishes us to “Listen, my son, to a father’s wisdom.” The writers expressed advice of good and loving fathers, who were eager to keep their children from harm and desired that their children live to serve God.

Scripture contains all kinds of stories of father-child relationships, and we get to see fathers in all their humanity: sometimes they are wonderful and wise, but other times they make bad choices and the results are disastrous! Regardless of human flaws, these men were important to their children—even Jesus was given an earthly father, Joseph, to shelter and nurture him.

It should stagger us a little to think that God, the Creator of the universe, God Almighty, invites us to pray to him by saying, “Our Father.” The Apostle Paul goes further, by suggesting that we can approach God by crying “Abba,” an intimate family word like Daddy. The Holy Spirit testifies that we are children of God (Romans 8:15-16)! Amazing!

Being human, our earthly fathers may fall short of always giving sound advice, and even being good and loving. If you are a parent yourself, you know how overwhelming the responsibilities of rearing children can be. But fathers (and mothers) are God’s instruments for helping to raise sons and daughters who live God-honoring lives. We should thank God for our earthly parents, ask for God’s protection and guidance for them in their parenting role—no matter what their age—and give thanks that God Almighty, who invites us to call him Abba, is also the father of our mothers and dads.

Mask Policy update:

In accordance with the New Jersey Governor’s Order 242, dated May 25, 2021, all previous FPC COVID Policies are rescinded. The following policy is in effect as of this date:

 

At FPC, our commitment has always been to respect and follow the state mandated policies regarding Covid restrictions.  Given the Governor's latest changes, we will no longer require the use of masks for indoor or outdoor worship.  Masks are still recommended (not required) for those who have not been vaccinated.  As per the Governor's orders, children will still be required to wear masks.  We will ease this restriction in accordance with local school policies.  We request that all people continue to be respectful toward those who wish to show caution and remain distanced from others.  Of course, we recommend everyone continue to practice strong hygiene habits and to stay home if you are sick.

 

We are so excited to see your smiling faces and hear your beautiful voices raised in worship this Sunday and beyond.  If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to any member of the Session or FPC staff.

 

Upcoming Events

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