TIP 52. FATHERING OVER THE WALL
Many men discover that as they focus more and more on being the best dad that they can be to their children, that their heart opens up to the many possibilities that surround us everyday. As our children grow up they often bring their school friends around to play, or the kid's down the road want to play cricket or football in the backyard, and this may very well be a God ordained opportunity to share His love.
Children are very quick to pick up on the subtle differences that your home may have compared to their own, whether it is the style of house, the size of the TV screen or even more importantly the love that you show to your children. So many children these days are growing up without a father, or with one that may be struggling in the role, and the love and acceptance that you show to these children can make a tremendous difference in their life.
When love and fun are the staple diet at your house then don't be surprised if your house becomes a beacon to the whole neighbourhood. One of the keys to being effective in 'fathering over the wall' is to have a child friendly home, with things for the kids to do. Whether it be games, a pool or sports activities, it is important to create an environment where your children feel happy to bring their friends. This can also become strategically important as they continue to grow up and helps you to 'monitor' their friends and ensure that they are not being influenced in the wrong way.
It is amazing how even a smile or an encouraging word can change the destiny of a child and fill their heart with hope that perhaps there is a better life for them ahead. I believe heaven will be filled with people who had their lives touched by someone who had enough of God's love flowing for some of it to reach 'over the wall'.
Dads' Call To Action:
Be on the lookout for opportunities to share God's love freely with the friends of your children, it may begin as simply as giving them a smile or remembering their name, but it can be one of the very things God uses to bring them into His kingdom.
(Genesis 49 v 22)
Joseph is a fruitful bough,
A fruitful bough by a well;
His branches run over the wall.
( Malachi 4 v 6)
And he will turn
The hearts of the fathers to the children,
And the hearts of the children to their fathers,