Our Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the fathers and father-figures in our families, communities and especially in our school community here at Heathdale.
We praise You for the role of men in our lives: how they trust You and seek to model that trust to us. We are grateful for the glimpse of Your character we see through these men.
Yet those of us who are fathers and father-figures acknowledge our shortcomings, failures and sins as well. How often we fail to reflect You in our words, actions and priorities. We ask for Your forgiveness and grant us repentant hearts as we step afresh into our roles and responsibilities.
Lord, grant our fathers and father-figures patience to listen, tenderness to love and courage to lead the flock You have entrusted them.
When they feel weary, discouraged or uncertain, please give them strength.
When their failures and hurts overwhelm them, please heal them.
May they know that their worth is not in their perfection, but in Yours.
May they rest even more in Your fatherly love shown to them through Jesus Christ.
May they know the blessing of Your presence and favour all their days.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
If you have any prayer requests, please contact our Pastoral Care team at prayer@heathdale.vic.edu.au.