"Does anybody really love me?" It's a question that echoes in the depths of our hearts. For those who grew up without a father—or with complicated father relationships—this question carries extra weight, especially on Father's Day.

Growing up without my father after years of family turmoil, I discovered that love and approval became synonymous. I built what psychologists call a "false self"—a constructed identity designed to win acceptance and love. This false self isn't unique to those with father wounds; we all create personas to protect our vulnerabilities and ensure our survival. Whether it's through achievement, humor, intelligence, physical appearance, or spiritual performance, we present versions of ourselves we think are worthy of love.

The parable of the two sons in Luke 15 brilliantly illustrates this human tendency. The younger son rejected his father's love, believing he needed to create his own value through possessions and experiences. Meanwhile, the older son remained physically home but emotionally distant, viewing himself as a slave rather than a son. Despite their different paths, both were trying to earn what was already freely given—their father's unconditional love.

When my son was born and rushed to the NICU, I instinctively placed my hand on his tiny chest and whispered, "I love you, I'm so proud of you." In that moment, I heard God whisper back, "This is how I've always felt about you." This revelation transformed my understanding of God's fatherly love—a love that doesn't need to be earned or achieved.

The invitation this Father's Day is to recognize that your true self isn't something you create—it's who you already are in God's love, waiting to be received. You don't need to keep striving. God's embrace is ready for you, not because you've earned it, but simply because you are His beloved child. What would change if you truly believed you're already home?

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