Today, all across the nation, we’re observing two holidays: Father’s Day and Juneteenth.
Father’s Day has always held a special place in my heart. My Granddad, Jesse Hensarling Jr., was a pastor who modeled for me a life of sacrifice. My Grandpa, Eugene Miller, served in the Air Force and taught me the price of devotion. My own father, Duane Miller, is my real-life hero who has shown me the way to love, lead, and live well. This Father’s Day I honor them, and all who have risen to the noble calling of fatherhood. Happy Father’s Day!
Juneteenth was officially recognized as a new Federal holiday in the United States in 2021, but its roots go much further back. Juneteenth celebrates the true ending of slavery in our country when, on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was initially issued, the final remaining black people enslaved in Texas were set free. For two years they were freed by decree, but on June nineteenth, they were free indeed. We join in celebrating the moment when the truth of the Scriptures that all people are created in the image of God finally broke forth in freedom for our black brothers and sisters. Happy Juneteenth!
As wonderful as these holidays are, we gather today with an even grander purpose. We are here to worship the greatest Father who has purchased our ultimate freedom through the Son and bestowed eternal life upon us in the Spirit. In all the celebrations this weekend, let us remember the greatest celebration of all that is ours in the gospel!
Because the gospel is why we are loved, more than we know!
