Happy Birthday, Dad!

Today marks half a century since the birth of my father. I remember when I was a little girl, talking to Dad and saying, eyes wide,  “Dad! When you turn 50, I’ll be 18!” At the time, it seemed so far into the future. It’s hard to believe it’s already here.

I have so many wonderful memories of my dad. There was the time he tried to teach me how to ride a bike in our back yard in Ohio (some of you may have seen the home video *grin*). There was my first time playing golf with him (after three holes, I sprawled out on the fairway). I remember the times he tucked me into bed at night (often staying up past when he wanted to go to bed because I was still putting my PJs on and brushing my teeth). We’ve even had inside jokes, things that only he and I laugh about when they’re brought up. I remember many of the times he stayed up later than usual to help me with my math homework. He’d explain things to me over and over again until I’d finally get it. He always had time for me.

The most amazing thing I remember about my dad, though, is how much he has changed. I remember when he was an unbeliever and then when he started going to church; I was 3 or 4. I remember when he and mom were baptized. I remember when God finally broke him and he started to really follow after Christ. I remember when he tried to read the Bible with me when I was still unconverted; I often fell asleep. I remember when he would practice his Evangelism Explosion outline on me, and when he’d come home each Thursday night with stories of the many he’d had the opportunity to share the gospel with, hopeful that maybe they had been saved.

I remember one night, after God had really started drawing me, Dad told me how he’d been praying for so long that my relationship with the Lord would become a priority in my life. He was sitting out in the driveway at our old house. It was night time and he was working on the car; I came out just to talk. It was just a few weeks after that when the Lord really arrested me for Himself, and I too, began to follow Him.

I know I often take for granted the privilege of having a father who loves the Lord and desires to please Him in everything he does. Many friends who don’t have that same privilege often remind me of this.  He consistently supports me in my service of the Lord. We haven’t always agreed on what’s best for my future, but the Lord has changed his heart in that regard. And, even when we didn’t agree, he encouraged me to do what I thought would please my Lord the most. He trusted that I was in good hands. :) He is a constant source of encouragement, and ever helpful in gaining a better understanding of the things of God. I could not ask for me.

With that said, I love you, Dad. Thanks for being so faithful to God, and faithfully leading our family for his glory. Happy birthday.