Happy Father's Day

This has been such an amazing Father’s Day.  A mini background –1 ½ years ago, shortly after I moved to Kansas City to be a part of World Revival Church, my father was diagnosed with cancer, had major surgery, and passed away.  It all happened in the space of a month, and I don’t remember many of the details.
One thing that does stand out is sitting in the spare bedroom of my parents’ house a day or two after the funeral.  I wanted God.  I needed God.  Desperately.  But I felt like there was a thick, unbreachable wall between me and Him.  I hurt so badly it was terrifying to feel anything, and I was utterly unable to get into his presence.
Fast forward a few weeks, and I was back in KC.  Although the pain was still terrible at times, there was no escaping God's presence during services.  It was the only time I felt safe enough to break down and feel, because he was so close and so strong.
But it was more than God being there for me.  I have found family in this place who don’t replace my natural parents and siblings, but have become family nonetheless.  They grabbed me and pulled me close, praying for and encouraging me constantly.
Particularly today, I’ve been thinking about all of the spiritual fathers who have stepped into my life.  Some may not even know I see them that way; but I draw strength and encouragement just from seeing them, shaking their hand, hearing their sincere “Hello!  How are you?”  I have others that will specifically give me fatherly wisdom and counsel, and even convict me about my driving habits!
So, even though today is the second Father’s Day since my natural father’s death, there has been no grief, no crying.  It’s not that I don’t miss him.  But God has been so good to me, the only tears I can shed are happy, thankful ones. 

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