On this eve of Father’s Day, may I introduce you to the fiercely territorial and stunningly handsome patriarch of our small lake? His lovely lady is very capable of expressing herself as well, and they often do so together, the sound of their great wings echoing all over the nearby countryside as they trumpet indignantly at any unwanted visitors to their little realm. But right now, she’s busy with other things.
Cleverly located so it’s accessible only by water or treacherous swamp, they’ve built a nest and she spends most of her time hidden away there, lovingly incubating a yet-unknown quantity of precious eggs with the heat of her body. That is her work—and we eagerly anticipate seeing the rewards of her patience soon when they bring their new family out to show off to the neighbors they tolerate (us and the ducks).
But papa has a job, too. By day, he nervously patrols the area, watching for danger. At night, he often rests in this perch away from the nest, careful not to draw undue attention to the place he is guarding, yet close enough to be ever watchful and ready to rush to the rescue. He is the protector—and I have no doubt he would put his life on the line for his offspring should the need arise (though you won’t catch me getting close enough to those powerful wings to find out!).
There are a couple fathers/grandfathers in my life, who I also happen to love very much, who would do the same—and today I wish a Happy Father’s Day to these very special men. As you protectively love your families you model the infinitely greater love of our Heavenly Father, and we are so grateful!
“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.” (Psalm 103:13)
Rejoicing Hills 
So beautiful in every way.