First of all, I have to say "thanks" for my mother. Today on her 84th birthday, she was up early, busying herself around the house, preparing breakfast for Dad and me. Even though she isn't feeling well, there's a pie in the oven, because, as she says, "David needs to have a pie" :) - Yes, at almost 50 I still admit I enjoy being spoiled :)
I've written about my gratitude for my parents. I am so appreciative for their passion for Christ and for being authentic Christians.
Dad has always loved to worship. For most of my life Dad was what we would now call "the worship leader". Of course, back then we just called him the "song leader". However, leading singing at church was only a tiny part of where or what my Dad sang.
Yesterday he and I ran to town to get something, and off and on during the drive Dad would break out into some chorus of some song from his past. At almost 89 it amazes me at how he can bring back to mind the lyrics and tune of songs he says he hasn't heard since his childhood. There are those random moments when Dad will sing his "old maid song" to some unsuspecting person, but the vast majority of the time the songs Dad breaks into are all songs of praise.
As I was driving him around town yesterday, one of the songs he began to sing was
"Many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand.
But I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand..."
Amen!
Tonight Dad will leading "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem" during the Christmas program at their church. It's been years since Dad has led any songs during services, and believe me, he is as excited as a child at Christmas to be singing tonight.
I guess I've always known it, but this week I am aware that my love for music and especially worshiping with singing comes from a dad who has worshiped with singing all my life. I am grateful to the Father for givng me a dad to example for me that real men worship. Real men not only love Jesus as the bumper sticker says - but real men aren't ashamed to express their love for Jesus either.
My Dear Pastor, I have enjoyed the journey of your art work...painting life pictures with colorful words of those touching your life. Thank you for sharing the paths with us...there had to be low places before you climbed the mountain to Oak Park! I am thankful for your life. from Up on the Hill!
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