(This was what I shared at my dad's funeral today 5/23/13. I share it with you in the utmost respect for my father and in hopes that it will touch the hearts of other marriages and families.)
Reflecting back on my childhood (and setting aside all the memories of watching sports with my dad) my 3 most vivid daily memories would be the rattling of change in my dad’s pockets, the fact that he whistled almost everywhere he went, and the fragrance of Old Spice after shave that would linger on our dog’s head each morning indicating dad had petted him before he left for work.
My father was a good man who, like all of us, lived an imperfect life. He was very much the prodigal son who loved the Lord but wanted to do things his own way. While God clearly works through those who are willing vessels, in His infinite wisdom He also displays Himself in the lives of those who are not so willing to submit. This was my dad, and truthfully in no other life that I’ve known has the grace of God been more evident than his. That grace proved sufficient as time after time it covered dad’s mistakes. The faithfulness of God became undeniable as Ezekiel 34:11 & 16 played out in his life … “And the Lord said, Behold, I myself will search for my sheep and will seek them out. I will seek that which was lost and bring back that which has strayed.” Yes, dad spent many years as a wandering sheep, but the Good Shepherd was always faithful to lead him back.
The power of persevering prayer eventually paid off, but not in the timing those praying would’ve liked. Nevertheless, God’s promises are true and His word does not return void, and the longer it takes for the things hoped for to come to pass in our lives the more precious they are. As Joel 2:25 says “And He will restore to you the years the locusts have eaten.” Our family has personally witnessed the healing of a marriage and the restoration of a family. In fact during the last weeks of his life, dad cried as he too acknowledged the goodness of God and the evidence of the redemptive power of Christ on his life. We have been so blessed as a family who at times couldn’t trace the hand of God and therefore had to trust His heart. The result has been a deeper understanding of God’s amazing grace, His unwavering faithfulness, and His unfailing love.
So what have I learned from these 3 seemingly insignificant childhood memories of my dad?
-First, sometimes change rattles, but no matter how long it takes we can be assured God’s will is being done as He transforms us from glory to glory.
-Second, because we can trust in the Author and Finisher of our faith to change what needs to be changed within and around us, we can be at rest and “whistle while He works.”
-And lastly, when all is said and done just like the scent of after shave on our little dog’s head, the fragrance of our life will undoubtedly reveal that we have been touched by the Father’s hand.
Thank you God for my dad and the many lessons I have learned through his life. And dad, I love you. I will miss you, and my soul is anchored to the promise of our eternal heavenly reunion.
