Verse:
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."
Lesson:
As fathers, it’s easy to think providing or giving advice is our most important role. But often, the greatest gift we can give our children is simply our presence. Being fully engaged; listening, playing, and showing genuine interest, tells them they matter and are loved. Kids notice distractions, but they also notice intentional time spent together. Jesus modeled this kind of presence. He didn’t just preach; He walked with, healed, and spent time with people. Your consistent, focused presence is a powerful way to reflect God’s love and shape your children’s hearts
Reflection:
Ask yourself: “Am I really present with my child, or am I just showing up when it’s convenient?” Most children don’t remember the lectures, the money spent, or even the outings, they remember whether you were truly there for them. Stop settling for the difference between being physically in the room and being mentally and emotionally engaged.
Insight:
Drew Brees is known as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game; second all-time in career passing yards and touchdowns, third in completion percentage, and the record-holder for most consecutive games with a touchdown pass. But what truly made Brees remarkable wasn’t his stats, it was his priorities.
Despite the pressure and chaos of NFL life, he made family time non-negotiable. He started workouts before sunrise so he could eat breakfast with his kids. After games, he’d bring them onto the field; not for show, but to share life’s lessons and joy together. He often said his faith and family came before football, and he lived that truth by turning down media opportunities and endorsements that interfered with family time.
That’s what real presence looks like. It’s not about having extra time, it’s about making time. It’s choosing to be fully engaged, not just physically nearby. Presence is love in action.
Jesus modeled the same kind of intentional presence. He stopped for people others ignored. He listened, cared, and made every person feel seen. Whether blessing children, eating with sinners, or comforting the broken, Jesus showed that love is spelled T-I-M-E.
Your kids don’t need more things; they need you. Your steady, undistracted presence is the greatest gift you’ll ever give them.
Family Mantra: "Presence beats presents."
Prayer:
Father, help me to be present with my children today. Teach me to set aside distractions, to truly listen, and to show them that they are valued and loved. May my time with them reflect Your love and presence in our lives. Amen.