She continued, “You know, that picture of Dad and Grandpa together really emphasizes how short Dad was compared to Grandpa. Remember how Dad always talked about how much he disliked it and what a disadvantage it was for him being a short man?”
Well, truthfully, no I don’t remember that.
It wasn’t until just a year or two ago that I actually realized how short my dad is. Yes, I always did think Grandpa was tall (although he was probably just a little over 5'10"), but I’m so short that everyone’s tall!
Sunday I heard a sermon on Luke 2:52, “And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”
That was it! Dad never seemed short because he is a man of stature.
He was the head of our home. We were never confused about that.
Imperfect, yes and he is the first to admit it; yet....
He provided ample necessities, without indulgence.He disciplined because he loved us and wanted us to be honorable and productive members of society.
He taught and modeled righteous behavior.
He embodied and instilled in us a strong work ethic.
He inculcated the conviction that we are not the center of the universe but that a life well and joyously lived comes by blessing others.
He demonstrated how to generously give in money and time and sweat.
He expected our best.
He taught us to respect our mother — don’t even want to think of what would have happened if he ever saw me disrespecting Mom.
He led us to the Lord — the greatest gift of all.
He showed us how to love and enjoy our family.
He drilled us in how to argue our point! Whew!!!
He encouraged and demonstrated sisu.
Strong in stature. That’s my dad. And that makes me and our family rich indeed.
Sons, daughters, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews — I call your spirits to attention! Like your Grandpa and Great-grandpa in his humanness, and like Jesus, your example, I bless you with increase in wisdom and stature. I bless you with favor with God and man. I bless you in the Name of Jesus of Nazareth.
No comments:
Post a Comment