The English word “father” comes from the Latin word pater. Paternal authority is absolute and is used as a term of comparison to describe the authority of God the Creator. Paternity provides for life. It protects, governs, and guides the earthly family in a manner similar to the loving protection of God the Father in heaven. Fathers also reward virtue and punish vice. I’m grateful that I grew up in the age of Ozzie and Harriet, Father Knows Best, and It’s a Wonderful Life. I