My Dad's Voice

For as long as I can remember my day's voice has been a constant and caring guiding force in my life. I have listened to his words of advice, critical yet loving feedback, interactions with others, and core values of service to others. Like most typical children, when I messed up, it was Dad's voice I avoided. When I accomplished something worthwhile it was and is still his voice that I seek for affirmation. 

Even as a successful adult with much responsibility, I often find myself wondering, "hhmmmm, what would Dad say about that?".  I have looked toward his voice as my anchor for nearly 46 years now. It has been a source of comfort and center of influence my entire life.  Yes, he is opinionated and has very high expectations for those with whom he associates, but he is also one of the most giving people I have ever known. 

On January 28th Dad checked himself into the hospital for an elective hip replacement that should have taken no more than a couple months of recovery time at home and 3 days in the hospital at most. But, our Heavenly Father had very different plans. To spare you all the gory details, lets just say after multiple hospitals and many, "it'll be a miracle if he makes it 24 hours" , God wasn't finished with him yet! And yesterday, after almost 6 months of not hearing my Dad's voice, we had a 3 hour conversation about nothing really. But that conversation has blessed me more than any other. I didn't realize how I missed his voice until I heard it again. 

Nehemiah 1:10-11New International Version (NIV)

¹⁰ “They are your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and your mighty hand. ¹¹ Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.”

I was cupbearer to the king.

     

As I basked in the comfort of his voice, I began to realize that God gave me Jesus as a guide as well. He blessed me with my earthly father to train me in the ways of servanthood, but he blessed the world with Jesus of Nazareth, descendant of David, son of God to train me in all His ways. Dear Father, may I be a constant and humble student of your Word and Ways.   I cannot imagine how I will feel the day I get to hear the voice of Jesus.  As sweet as my dad's voice is to my earthly ears, the heavenly voice is one I long to one day hear.

His guidance and example through God's Word and the whispers He allows me are a blessing here on earth just as my Dad's love and example have been. I praise his name for giving this servant success by granting me favor in the presence of man. 

Sharing My Jesus!

Shawn