The Perfect Father

Before I received eternal life my life as a 10 year old included young parents who loved their family, but struggling finances coupled with excessive alcohol rendered days filled with anger, worries and anxiety.

I remember seeing my friends with their parents especially their dads, thinking I wish I had a dad to go to when I needed comfort.

Then one Sunday after arriving at a local church by a church bus, (my parents never took me and my siblings to church) I heard a man go to the front of the sanctuary and explain how he met someone named Jesus. Jesus became his friend and helped him when he was going through tough times. Then he explained we (the people listening) could also invite this Jesus into our lives and He would do the same for us. There was a fire that stirred within me and was so excited to ask Him in my heart. I wanted to tell everyone. But when I went home my parents would have no part of me taking this road because they thought I was too young to make this decision. Fast forward 8 more years I was introduced to my husband- a man who had a heart for The Lord and began explaining to me how to be a follower of Christ. My husband taught me who Jesus was and what He did for me. I realized I needed a Savior and wanted to live a life that honored Him.

Now I have a Father in Heaven who hears me, guides me and teaches me to love and even restored my relationship with my earthly father.

For so many years I have struggled with a positive relationship with my dad. My mom and dad were saved 11 years after I was married. Then my son was born 3 years later. I got to witness my dad become a BEAUTIFUL grandparent to him and then after mom passed away, I felt a strong urge to take care of him (my dad). God allowed me to love him and enjoy making precious memories that included many Bible discussions and thanking God for what He has done in our family. Dad just recently passed and my siblings and I were able to spend the last three months cherishing him and enjoying his sweet love for others and most importantly JESUS. The last 24 hours of his earthly life included singing hymns and when we played the last song I'll Fly Away, dad's breaths shortened and as the song ended so he took his last. Only God could bring peace, comfort, and JOY in moments like this.

What amazing absolute assurance I have now that I have The PERFECT FATHER in Heaven who is Creator of All! One who knows everything about me and all my needs. One who sent His only Son to come as a WILLING Sacrifice so that anyone, including my dad and me, that believes in Him will have eternal life. I know I will get to see my earthly dad again and I will always have a Heavenly Father beside me, guiding me, directing my steps, and holding me safely in His hands.