heart of my Daddy

"I have sent forth My Word and healed you; and rescued you from the grave." Psalm 107:20

When the unexpected happens, routines change... but God doesn't.

It started out as a routine Saturday morning, then my brother called.  Daddy's weakening heart triggered breathing complications the night before, and he was in ICU.  I quickly prepared for the 4-hour trip home.  Later that evening, while in the hands of skilled physicians and with signs of improvements, we left the hospital for needed rest, feeling assured he would continue to improve, as he had on numerous hospital stays.  No words can describe the shock and numbness we experienced on Sunday morning when we returned; Daddy had taken a drastic turn for the worst. In a couple of hours, we lost him.  The rest of the week was a blur as we went through the necessary arrangements.  My daily routine of working and writing vanished, as i was caught totally unprepared for his departure.

Do not grieve, for My joy shall be your strength. ( Neh. 8:10)

Now a week later, my selfish heart still mourns the unexpected loss of Daddy, but i am trying to focus more on the glimmers of peace sprinkled in my heart.    During this past week, my soul has been flooded with memories and stories shared on how Daddy lived. Before now, i never stopped to realize how much my earthly daddy reflected the love of my heavenly daddy.  

Unending Service...  Daddy started Shearin's Tire Service over 40 years ago, serving his home community with honesty and integrity.  He had always smiled saying he'd probably have as many customers at his funeral as family, and he was right.  He had a respectful, trusting relationship with all he served. His work on earth was not about his status, but his service/word to others. He lived by the golden rule and applied it to all. 

Father to all... As my brother and i talked to people during visitation and read the many notes sent, it was clear to us we were not Daddy's only children. Many considered him as a trusted daddy or brother.  Admiration for him extended beyond blood connections to heart connections. No matter their makeup, when talking or advising others, to Daddy they were "son" or "shug".    

Love in action... Daddy was not a cross-wearing man nor did he attend church every Sunday and preach to others.  But he loved God and, therefore, others, as exhibited in how he lived. Whether family, friend, employee or customer - regardless of age, color, ranking - he listened and addressed their concerns. Over and over people reminded us of the person he was:  gracious, sweet, kind, caring, wise, generous, gentle.

Thank you... The most common words from Daddy's lips were "thank you".  I don't recall him ever forgetting to thank someone for even the most minute act of kindness.  Whether it was Mary, his wife, handing him his pills or a friend passing food to him or a stranger helping him in the car, Daddy always said thank you.  He took nothing or anyone for granted.

As i strive to return to a revised routine, i am grateful to know God is the same and a strong constant. He has and will continue to provide signs of His comfort and love not just during a difficult trial but afterwards. Returning to work last Friday, one of the first books i checked in was "The Thank You Book".  On a regular basis, i glance up at the sky looking for crosses. While walking the dogs Saturday, i looked up at the dark, cloudy skies to catch a sweet surprise. There in the clouds was a cross.  It was a vivid reminder, like hearing God say, "I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go." (Gen. 28:15)

Then there was the prelude at church Sunday, "Steal Away to Jesus"... and he did.

The LORD heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds... Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit. (Psalm 147:3,5)

Now, in the words of Daddy, "thank you" for understanding the break in my devotions.  "Thank you" for letting me share part of my difficult week. "Thank you, Daddy, for not telling me how to live, but showing me. And "thank You", Father, for Your gift of eternal life.  It is my prayer when heartache falls your way, you too will be strengthen by your faith and knowledge of God's promises.  May your soul  be filled with comforting, precious memories left for you to treasure in your heart.

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal