Well, the books are finally available and we are giving them away at huge discounts. This was a one-and-a-half year project to research, write and critique this book with a focus group – then – over the last three months I have worked on nothing but finishing re-writing this book, getting it formatted and printed. But now, the 178 page paperback book, Fatherhood Principles of Joseph the Carpenter: Examples of Godly Fatherhood is available at: www.JosephTheCarpenterBook.com.
Joseph the Carpenter was a great man of faith and is a perfect role-model for 21st century fathers, one that is sorely needed at this time when fatherhood has been under attack and divorce amongst Christians is as prevalent as non-Christians.
What Role Did Joseph Have in Jesus’ Life?
As the earthly father to Jesus Christ, Joseph was a Godly man, a man of character, a loving husband, a family man, a teacher, a provider and a protector.In short, Joseph was a purpose-driven servant of God.
What Is the Book All About?
Fatherhood Principles of Joseph the Carpenteris a challenging and exciting new motivational book for Fathers with ground-breaking analysis of the scant scriptures on this Great Man of Faith.It helps men gain a heightened understanding of Joseph’s history and education.It brings to life how he taught and coached the boy Jesus (like Eli did for Samuel).It presents eye-opening accounts of the Jewish background for many Biblical scenes.It provides seven uplifting principles that fathers and husbands can implement right now.
Who Wrote the Book?
The author, Akili Kumasi, attends church in Queens, New York.He is a devoted father of two young men and two daughters, a former college instructor and the author/editor of twelve books including four fatherhood books.Akili is the founder of the Reconciled Fathers Network, a ministry that helps separated-fathers become good and Godly parents (www.rFathers.Net).
As 2009 begins I am reminded of how important fatherhood is and just how fragile life can be. Today there are two stories in the news about fathers and lost sons. These stories are very different and very compelling.
Two Tragic News Stories
First, tragically a well-known celebrity (John Travolta) just lost his sixteen year old son (apparently connected to an illness). I am sure that the grief, is unimaginable, except to those that have also lost a child.
Second, a father in New Jersey who did not want to pay child support confessed to murdering his son and burying him in a playground. For that family, the grief must also be enormous and unbearable. Their anger should also be kindled.
Whereas this blog is to be uplifting and help fathers overcome obstacles to being good fathers, I cannot just pass by these stunning news stories about fathers and lost sons without some comment and feelings for the parents and loved ones.
Take Advantge of God-Given Opportunities
Generally speaking, when a father misses out on the opportunity of fatherhood it is because of their own shortcomings, busy schedules or poor priorities – not because of a death of a child – although it does happen. As we look at those two news stories above, I ask and emplore fathers to renew their committment to being good fathers.
Do it now while the opportunity still presents itself. If the opportunity is snatched from you because of the untimely death of your child(ren), you will not have a second chance.
Also, fathers, do not let the passage of time catch you. Do you want to look up one day to see that your children are grown and gone already? Do you want to be full of regret that you did not take the opportunity when it was available?
Here is one of the RFN theme statements that capsulizes what I think about fatherhood:
?Being a father is one of the greatest rewards and one of the most significant challenges a man can face. No father should miss this God-given responsibility and blessing.? (Akili Kumasi)
Lastly, take a look and listen to the two musical selections that come to mind below:
1. “Cats in the Cradle” written/sung by the late Harry Chapin
Lyrics to “Cats in the Cradle”
(Verse 1)
My child arrived just the other day,
He came to the world in the usual way.
But there were planes to catch, and bills to pay,
He learned to walk while I was away.
And he was talkin’ ‘fore I knew it, and as he grew,
He’d say “I’m gonna be like you, yeh,
I know I’m gonna be like you”.
(Chorus)
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little Boy Blue and The Man In The Moon.
“When ya comin’ home Dad?”
“I don’t know when, we’ll get together then, son,
Ya know we’ll have a good time then”.
(Verse 2)
Well my son turned 10 just the other day,
He said “Thanks for the ball Dad, come let’s play.
Can ya teach me to throw?” I said
“Not today, I got a lot to do.” He said “That’s ok”.
And then, he walked away but his smile never dimmed,
He said “I’m gonna be like him, yeh,
Ya know I’m gonna be like him”.
(Chorus)
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little Boy Blue and The Man In The Moon.
“When ya comin’ home Dad?”
“I don’t know when, we’ll get together then, son,
Ya know we’ll have a good time then”.
(Verse 3)
Well he came from college just the other day,
So much like a man I just had to say
“Son I’m proud of you, can ya sit for a while?”
He shook his head, and he said with a smile
“What I’d really like Dad, is to borrow the car keys.
See ya later, can I have them please?”
(Chorus)
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little Boy Blue and The Man In The Moon.
“When ya comin’ home son?”
“I don’t know when, we’ll get together then, Dad,
Ya know we’ll have a good time then”.
(Verse 4)
Well I’ve long since retired, my son’s moved away,
I called him up just the other day.
I said “I’d like to see you, if you don’t mind.”
He said “I’d love to Dad, if I can find the time.
You see my new job’s a hassle and the kids have the flu,
But it’s sure nice talking to you Dad,
It’s been sure nice talking to you.”
And as he hung up the phone it occurred to me,
He’d grown up just like, my boy, was just like me.
(Chorus)
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little Boy Blue and The Man In The Moon.
“When ya comin’ home son?”
“I don’t know when, we’ll get together then, Dad,
We’re gonna have a good time then”.
Here are free recipes for Breakfast and Lunch for Dad's to do with their children from the book, Fun Meals for Fathers and Sons: Recipes and Activities for Bonding and Mentoring.
Reconciled Fathers Network
Akili Kumasi, Founder
