My Dad

My Dad was not one that drew a lot of attention to himself. Being a full Swede, and Lutheran to boot, that is not surprising. Yet, I would have to say that my Dad was one of greatest men I have ever met.

He grew up in Iowa, fought in World War II, attended Harvard, Graduated from Iowa State, moved to Texas “as fast as he could” after college, married “the cute Texas gal in the church choir” (my Mom), had 3 kids, 3 grandkids & 4 great grandkids. He had a successful career & then retired.

Sounds pretty normal.

So, why do I think he was so great? Well, what makes anyone great? Not the size of the empire they have built, but their character. My Dad was a man of character… a great role model & a really great Dad. I respect, admire and love my Dad.

My Dad had a quiet strength & persevering faith that held the family together through hard times. He had a great sense of humor that brought laughter at unexpected moments. My Dad was always honest, patient, gentle, and kind. I never heard him lie. He never swore or lost his temper – unless it was tax time. My Dad was a man of his word. A man you could trust.

Perhaps one of the best things a Father can do for a Daughter, is to be a man who loves his wife well – like my Dad did. My Dad always said that the best thing he ever did was to marry my Mother. He never said anything bad about my Mother, to me, or to anyone else. As a matter of fact, my Dad never ever said even one mean thing to me, my brothers, or my Mom. I never saw my Father be mean to anyone.

Growing up my Dad always believed in me, always had time for me, and was always there for me.

But I know it’s not like that for everyone. Through my years in ministry, I have met many people who have a difficult time relating to God the Father, because their own Father was not as loving as he should have been. The scripture says that God desires to turn the hearts of the Fathers to the Children & the Children to their Fathers (Malachi 4:6)

Maybe you carry with you an unmet desire for a Father’s affection & affirmation. If so, my prayer for you is that you will have the grace to repent to the Lord of all bitterness, anger & judgement you have towards your Father. If you do this, Father God will reveal His loving Father’s heart to you & set you free from the hurts of your past. God will become the loving Father you never had.

I know that I have been very blessed to have had a Dad who I believe represented Father God well. Generous, kind, loving, faithful, intelligent, fun, funny, supportive, good provider, protective, encouraging… Thanks Dad.

This weekend I wish my Dad a Happy first Father’s Day in heaven!

I love & miss you!

Your favorite daughter, Diane (Ok, so I was his only daughter… but we are ALL God’s favorite daughters – or sons!)

… I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 2 Cor 6:17 & 18 KJV