On my way to work this morning, I was deeply touched by a message on the radio by Dr. James Dobson, Focus on the Family. It was from 29 years ago today and was regarding Dr. Dobson's relationship to his father. Dr. Dobson stated that he asked God for a word, His word, concerning the family and this is what God gave him: "Our country can still be saved if men, husbands and fathers, will step up to the plate and be the men God created them to be." What a responsibility! I believe this to be true.

He gave statistics that were shocking - and, remember this was 29 years ago. He said that research was done to show exactly how much time fathers were spending with their kids. The fathers were first asked how much time they felt they were spending with their children on a daily basis. The consensus was an average of 37 - 40 minutes a day. Then the real test came! Tiny microphones were placed on children in these same households to find out exactly how much time fathers were spending interacting with their kids. The results were shocking to all! The average time fathers were spending with their kids per day was 37.7 seconds - not minutes - seconds. What does this tell you about the relationships these fathers had with their kids?! Oh, so sad!! If any dads read this, PLEASE put your family before anything else - job, hobbies, and yes, even church. You have it within your grasp to leave a living legacy to your family. Make this a priority each day. You won't regret it!

At the end of my life - when all is said and done - I hope my children and grandchildren will be able to say that I gave my time to them. It is my sincere prayer that I don't just spend time - but quality time - showing them the ways of our Lord. I want to make a difference in their lives.