Reflecting on My Dad’s Love: A Father’s Day Tribute

This Father’s Day weekend, I have been thinking much about my dad who has been in heaven for a little more than two years. His passing was hard, but honestly, he had suffered so much that we were all relieved that he was no longer sick, but was now in heaven with His Savior. As the song goes, “All is peace forevermore, on that happy Golden Shore.” I can only imagine all he has been enjoying since his feet touched that Golden shore!

There are many things that I desperately miss about him that made him the best father a daughter could ask for. Here are just three…

1. I miss his verbal encouragement. My dad would always share words to spur me on regarding projects I was hoping to accomplish, assuring me he knew I could do it. He would question me regarding upcoming ministry opportunities, and tell me how proud he was that I was living for the Lord. One Father’s Day he even sent ME a card – just to express his thanks for me being his daughter! In the last few years of his life, when I would visit him and my mom, he would meet me in the hallway as I was headed to bed, put his arm around my shoulders and say, “I sure love you girls.” I never doubted my father’s love…he showed me, but he also used words.
2. I miss hearing him call my nick name. He gave me a nickname when I was a child, and he rarely ever called me Denise. I had an affinity for Pooh Bear as a little girl. When I entered their home, he would say, “Hey Bear.” It was just a sweet token of love from him to me. I know that my dad also called my name out in prayer because he would tell me he was praying for me. What a gift.
3. I miss his phone calls. My dad was one of few words, so when he called me, he would ask questions about how everyone was doing, and then he would say, “Well, I don’t want to keep you,” and the conversation would be ended. Our chats were short and sweet, as they say, but the point was that he was thinking of me and so he called.

It is striking to me that it isn’t anything material that attaches our hearts to our parents. It’s the quiet demonstration of their love that means the most. It’s when they encourage, show tenderness, and are present – even from a distance. I’m asking the Lord to help me remember that as a mom and a Gigi. It’s a gift from my dad that I want to pass on to my girls, their husbands and my grandsons.

Be encouraging
Be tender
Be there

Thanks, Dad.

I realize that not everyone grew up with a godly father like I had, and my heart grieves with those who have difficult memories on Father’s Day. My friend, trust the heart of your Heavenly Father Who is always encouraging you through His Word, knows and calls you by name, and is a very present help in your time of need.