As Father’s Day approaches, Nancy Anderson shares a couple thoughts about the fathers in her life and some encouragement for men in this important role. Nancy is the wife of David Anderson (our Lead Pastor), mother of five, and elementary school teacher here in the San Gabriel Valley.

What is the best gift that you received from your father?

“He was a hands-on pastor, even though he wasn’t that verbal,” shared Nancy, in reflecting on her father. “My parents were so hospitable. We had an open door policy and always had people in our home.” She commented that her dad passed this along to her – his example of serving others being so important when ministering or in relationship with people.

Then, she continued, she married somebody just like that.  “I would say my dad was pretty instrumental in shaping David,” said Nancy. She described how her dad took David on some pastoral hospital calls. “My dad wouldn’t be verbal about doing these things. I would find out from other people that he did them. He was a quiet servant.”

What is the best gift you see your husband giving your children?

“I would say time. When David is home he is present with the kids,” Nancy commented. “He’s very engaged with them.”

Could you share some words of encouragement for all the dads out there?

Nancy expressed thankfulness for husbands who love their wives well, because “that in turn is so influential in the lives of kids in keeping them feeling secure in who they are.”

She also greatly appreciates the role of fathers in leading their families spiritually, in teaching their kids about the Lord. Nancy cited Deuteronomy 6:6-7, which talks about impressing the words of God on your kids as you go about life.

It says: These words I am commanding you today must be kept in mind, and you must teach them to your children and speak of them as you sit in your house, as you walk along the road, as you lie down, and as you get up.

“Thank you to all the dads who continue to lead their families in the ways of the Lord,” concluded Nancy.