Thinking About My Dad

I know that this weekend is Mother’s Day, but on this weekend I can’t help but also think about my dad. You see, since his birthday was May 10, it was always very close to Mother’s Day. In fact, some years his birthday actually fell on Mother’s Day. And it was eleven years ago this week that my dad passed away on May 7, 2014. We then buried him on May 10, on what would have been his 86th birthday (which like this year, fell on a Saturday).  So on this weekend, although I’m remembering my mom whom I loved very much and who passed away in 2017, I’m also thinking a lot about my dad.   

That's me with my mom and dad - 1960 

Like any of us who have lost a parent, there are times when I wish we could still talk to each other. Sometimes, I instinctually reach for the phone thinking I can give him a call to tell him about something that has happened in my life. Most of the time, we would talk about our cars, repairs around the house, or a Yankee game. Once I had kids, I would keep him up to date on what was happening with each one. He would ask me how things were going at the church, about our finances (“Do you have enough?”), and whether or not I was exercising.  

Every so often I wonder how my dad would respond to certain things taking place in my life now. I think he would have loved to have met his great-grandchildren. He would be amazed—and even think I’m a bit crazy—for having run a couple of half-marathons and done a triathlon, both in my 60’s. He would have been worried about me when I had back surgery a few years ago and radiation for prostate cancer. And I’m sure he would have had lots of advice for just about every aspect of my life. 

Unfortunately, we don’t always appreciate the people in our lives until they are gone. At times, we concentrate a bit too much on the negatives—after all, no relationship is perfect and no person is perfect. Once they are gone, however, our minds have a wonderful way of allowing the good to overshadow the bad, if we allow it to do so. Sadly, it’s not until then that we are truly grateful for them and for the time we had together. That was probably the case for me. 

Mom and Dad in the1990's

My hope, however, is that through my life my dad somehow felt the honor, love, and respect that he was due. And I hope and pray that God will help me love and appreciate the people he has placed into my life, not just after they are gone but while we are still together. May the same be true for you—especially those of you who still have your mother or father with you. 

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12 – NIV) 

Have a great day…and a wonderful Mother’s Day weekend. 

- Pastor Tim Harris