My Father

Growing up in a pastor's home was not always the easiest. However, my father seemed to recognize this and did his best to shield us from the constant onlookers and should I say "glass watchers." The tendency is to look at the pastor's home and see or suppose it is some perfect place, however, our home was just like any other home. We argued and fuss and then dad would make us make up. Mom and dad would give us chores to do and we would fuss about not having time and that we needed to hurry and go outside and play because things outside seemed a little more important. One thing our house was filled with was love and discipline. My father led the way in both categories!

My dad was always someone to look up to. He was always there for his family. He often arose early in the morning to go off into the day. He was always leading the way spiritually in our house. We would be watching T.V. and then dad would say, "It is time to turn the t.v. off and let us have devotions." We would fuss but he would always win. I use to get upset, but now I am grateful for those times.

I can remember, whenever my father would get a phone call from a church member or someone who needed help he would always respond and try to help them in their need. My father led the way in compassion and he passed that same heart down to us, his children. My father taught us to love. To love one another and most of all, to love the Lord. My dad was and is the best! He taught me how to be a good father and it is his imitation of Jesus that I so long to follow and pursue in my life. If I could be just half the man that he is then I will be a good man. In honor of my father!

This is today,

Pastor Gary