Father's Day

Sometimes flamboyant .. often enthusiastic... consistently principled, my dad rarely spoke of his Faith. Rather, that Preacher's Kid lived it every day by example. He taught me to pray, and made certain I accompanied he and my mother to church each Sunday ... even those mornings when I didn't much want to go!

He's been gone nearly 30 years now, but I still "talk" to him regularly.
Years ago, I tried explaining why I could no longer patronize that church in which I was baptized and later, confirmed. His church. The church of 3 generations of pastors who went before. Initially, I believed he would be cross ~ now, not so much. No matter the venue, he would be satisfied knowing that my Faith has strengthened. Because he loved me.

While attending Unity Clearwater a few years ago I came across this prayer. Perhaps it's not the author's intent, but missing my dad I was comforted by these words:

Even though I cannot be with you, even though I cannot see you or talk with you, I am as close to you as a thought. I am as near to you as the love I feel for you in my heart. Whenever I think of you, I bless you, and my love encircles you.


I do not worry about you. I know that God is watching over you, that God is your health, your strength, your source of supply, your happiness and your peace of mind.

Wherever you are, God is. Wherever I am, God is. God is watching over us while we are absent one from the other and making us to know that we are forever together in Spirit.


“The Lord watch between you and me, when we are absent one from the other.” (Gen. 31:49).

Happy Father's Day!