What Would Larry do?
We don't usually expect to find ourselves in a season of grief, more often than not, grief arrives unexpectedly. Losing my dad this past October transported me from my normal life and placed me into a dense fog. I will forever feel the void, especially when I want to pick up the phone and chat with him, but can’t. He was a good listener and I cherished our conversations - I would give anything for one more talk.
If there was ever a near-perfect person, it would have been my dad—at least in my eyes. The funny thing is, he wouldn't want me to say that as he never sought attention; instead, he always directed our eyes away from him and toward the Creator who lived in him. He had a servant's heart and embodied true humility. Yet, his humility should never be mistaken for weakness, for humility is not weakness, but a controlled strength.
“For the gifts of the spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23 My dad worked hard his entire life to be a person who produced the fruits of the spirit the Bible talks about. And those who knew him would agree. It was a beautiful thing to hear what others had to say about my dad at his memorial service. I had the privilege of truly knowing him and seeing firsthand who he was. He was the same person behind closed doors as he was to strangers.
My daughter Cassidy asked my brother and me “What we loved most about Papa?” Without hesitation, we both answered the same way: "Dad always pointed us to God’s word and prayer." There were times I felt frustrated because I wanted to know what he was thinking. But my dad knew that the greatest thing he could do was lead us to a relationship with Jesus.
He lived his life showing everyone around him how amazing life with Jesus truly is. Through his gentle and merciful spirit, he walked alongside many people during their trials, doing for them what he did for us as children: pointing them toward a fulfilling life with Jesus. It may sound simple, but to live with the kind of patience my dad had requires an incredible amount of strength. It's something I try to emulate.
Since my dad’s passing, we often find ourselves asking, “What would Larry do?” As I reflect more deeply this holiday season, I long to become the kind of person my dad was. He passed on the torch, and I’m determined to cultivate the fruits of the Spirit in my life, just as he did.
I will continue to mourn the loss of my dad, but I’m reminded that my grief is a testament to the deep love I had for my earthly father, who is now standing in the presence of our heavenly Father.
I plan to return to my regular writing schedule after the new year. For now, as I navigate this grief, I’m taking my counselor’s advice not to rush the process. I encourage you, no matter what season you're in, to take some time this holiday season to allow God to love you exactly where you are. And don’t forget to hug your loved ones a little extra.
Merry Christmas!
Renae
