On a morning in May, our father was called to heaven. He passed quickly in the way he wanted to go; in the midst of morning routines and sheltered in the comfort of his home. God called him to rest in his reward. We think of him today with gratitude and LOVE.

Our father was an incredible man of faith, who knew his time on earth was short. He trusted God to handle his days and felt “tethered” by the love of Jesus. We had many conversations about his readiness for heaven and He was prepared to go. Even in weakness, his voice was strong. He knew he was held by the Father.

We’re finding peace to recall his words and embracing a heart of thankfulness for the time we had with our hero. God provided bonus moments to spend with our 89-year-old dad. After our mother passed, we honored her memory with annual Dad and Daughter weeks at the beach. My sisters and I treasure those wonderful days together.

God sees inside the heart of those who rely on memories to sustain. He tenderly helps us remember what we will not forget. He reminds us how much we are loved and helps us focus on blessings. And He gives courage to remember LOVE bears ALL things.

God’s timing is not our own. He knows the plans He has for our lives. When we trust in His guiding, He brings peace through the pain. He helps us experience mercy and grace and reminds us to faithfully trust.

The Bible says, Now, may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say.

Today, we will lovingly remember the sweet man who raised us to know the love of Jesus. When tears come (and they will) we will release the sadness of loss and turn our eyes to the One who knows about pain. We will find strength to remember we will be okay.

Dad always said, “When it’s time to leave, go with a grateful heart.” He helped us when it was time to travel home. Today we rejoice to have had the sweetness of his love. Even though he is no longer with us, we will continue to honor his life by the way we live our own; trusting God, cradled in care and held by the love of Christ.

Thank you, God for leading our father home and knowing the desires of his heart. Thank you for answering his prayers. Thank you for peace that comes from knowing there is always a reason to be grateful, even when we have to say, “goodbye”.

God bless you today as you celebrate the lives of fathers who have passed, or spend time with those who are still with us. Happy Father’s Day, dear friends. Have a wonderful day with those you love. Treasure each and every moment you have to be together. ♥