A FATHER AND A SON                                           6/07

Prince Fielder is leading the National League with 23 home runs.  He plays first-base for the Milwaukee Brewers who are leading the National League Central Division.  For most players, this would be cause for celebration, but this Sunday, Father’s Day, may be a sad day for Prince Fielder.

 It goes back to 1990 when Prince’s father, Cecil Fielder hit 51 home runs for the Detroit Tigers, back when a 50 home run season meant something.  Prince was an adolescent boy with his father’s build and smile.  Father and son took batting practice together, which brought a smile to many fans.

 Fast forward to 2004.  Cecil’s life was falling apart.  He’d accumulated large gambling debts.  Cecil and his wife divorced.  The son no longer spoke to his father.

 A couple years ago, I saw Prince Fielder play in a minor league game in Peoria, IL.  He’s a huge man, with arms bigger than most men’s legs; he’s the kind of guy you want on your side, no matter what game you’re playing.  Now, in 2007, he’s leading the Milwaukee Brewers to their first winning season since 1992; talk about celebrating the end of a long drought! 

 But Father’s Day will be a sad day for the Fielders.  Unfortunately, Cecil and Prince are a father and son linked only by a name.  They don’t speak to each other.

 When our son, Jonathan, was 2-years-old, I’d come home from work, change my clothes, and go out to the front yard with him.  He’d dress up in his cute baseball uniform, stand with his bat held up, and I’d pitch a plastic ball to him.  He’d swing and sometimes hit it.  I’d fetch it and pitch it again.  We repeated this countless times.  I’ll never forget the grin on his face! 

 Like all parents and children, we’ve gone through times of being angry at each other.  But that would pass, and we’d be OK again.  I expect to receive a phone call from him on Father’s Day.  Fortunately, our son and I are linked by more than just a name. 

 Are you on friendly terms with your father or child?  If not, why not make an effort to rebuild communication with him?   You and your child can be linked by more than just a name, and you can make the first step.  This Father’s Day can be a step toward renewing your family relationships.  Then, when your child does something that makes you proud, you can celebrate together!

 Father’s Day will be a sad day for the Fielders, but it can be a joyous day for you and your family!

 In the Father’s service,

 Pastor Randy