My mission is clear...my goal is simple...I'm leading with purpose

Ryan Akers

Akers Family | High Ridge MO

My dad did everything with me. He coached my baseball and basketball teams, served in our youth group, and stayed involved in the community. Most of our important conversations about life and faith happened while we were just doing normal things together. What he said about Jesus was the same thing I saw him live out at home. There was no gap between his words and his actions. He was just a humble man trying to follow Jesus, and that example left a deep mark on me.

Now that I’m a dad myself, I realize the best gift I can give my daughter is that same kind of authenticity. Living out my faith in front of her—not just preaching it, but practicing it—is what matters most. Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s easy.

Vocationally, I'm a pastor. This adds a unique kind of pressure to fatherhood. I’m often tempted to parent from a place of performance. I catch myself thinking, “What’s expected of a pastor’s kid? How will her choices reflect on me?” It’s easy to start focusing on appearances instead of her heart. There are also seasons when I’m just tired—physically, emotionally, spiritually. After long days, the temptation is to come home, check out, and keep my distance. But I’ve learned that the hard thing—staying present and intentional—is usually the thing my daughter needs most.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through Dad Academy is that “your mission determines your values.” My mission as a dad is clear: to see my daughter passionately pursue Christ. That means being intentional with what I model, teach, and prioritize. Watching her grow and mature has been both humbling and rewarding.

Not long ago, I saw her send a message to one of her classmates who was nervous about the first day of school. She wrote, “I just wanted you to know I prayed for you today.” When I read that, I teared up. It reminded me that even though I don’t get everything right, my intentionality is paying off.

Dad Academy helped me find clarity as a father—to stop being passive and to lead with purpose. My goal is simple: to live in a way that points my daughter to Jesus. If I can do that, I’ll know I’ve given her something lasting—a legacy built on faith, love, and presence.