Sunday, June 21, 2026
A Daddy ’s Love
Scripture: Luke 15: 1 -32

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

William Wesley Taylor married my mother when I was 8 years old and my brother, Jeffrey, was 3 years old. He adopted us a little over a year later. Daddy was the brother of my mother ’s best friend, and they started dating after my biological father died. I am a true “Daddy ’s Girl. ” When my parents were dating, Daddy would bring my mother beautiful flowers and would bring me a bouquet of daisies. To this day, daisies are among my favorite flowers.

Daddy has always been there for us (me, my brother and sister). He encouraged us to face challenges with dignity. He defended us fiercely when others tried to hurt us or deny us something that was rightfully ours. This week, as I am thinking about Pride and Juneteenth, I realize the role Daddy played in my understanding of both. Daddy supported me when I came out — not a reality for many of my friends. When we were young, Daddy insisted that we learn about our history and heritage as African Americans. He would teach the other kids in our neighborhood, too. He ran to the edge of town for me, for us.

Our scripture this week is the story of a parent who comes to the edge of the city to reclaim their child. In that culture, a child, particularly a son, who disrespected his father and brother, would be seen as an enemy. An enemy could be killed at the entrance to the village. Any neighbor who got word that this younger son had returned, could have gone to the village gate and killed him. The father runs to the edge of town to reclaim his son, to save his life, and to preserve his dignity no matter how he left town. That ’s a Daddy ’s love.

 Music this week:

• Hallelujah (your love is amazing)

• I Have a Hope

• Let the River Flow

• El Shaddai

• Glory, Glory Lord

• I Will Celebrate

• Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ