My Dad, My Hero

My dad has always been my hero. A hero is a person of distinguished courage or ability, admired for brave deeds and noble qualities. In a word, this describes my dad. He has been an example to me of a godly man and loving husband, father, and now grandfather.

Ever since I can remember, Dad has been there to encourage, inspire, and teach me new things. He has always been self-sacrificing and supportive. When I was young, he taught me how to surf, coached my football team, and encouraged me in my adventures, such as motorcycling and skateboarding.

Much of this took extra effort. It would have been easier for Dad to just sit on the sidelines at my football games, but he volunteered to serve as the coach. During one game, he organized a full video-production shoot. The crew filmed the game just like we were playing in the NFL, and Dad edited the film for my team to enjoy. Dad’s work often required him to be away from home, but somehow he always found a way to be there for the big events of my childhood. Now I see how challenging this can be as my career sometimes causes me to be away from my wife and children.

Even though his involvement in my life often required great sacrifice for him, Dad never made me feel second to his work. He always invested 100% into my life.

My dad’s example allowed me to learn about God’s love and mercy in a way that can’t be taught by words alone. He always made Christ our family’s source and the head of our home. He taught my sister Becky and me the ways of the Lord and took pains to instill godly values in us.

Even when Dad had to discipline me, I could always feel his gentleness and understanding. I didn’t believe him when he told me the punishment would hurt him more than it hurt me, but as a father, I now know this is true. He loved me and disciplined me much as God does with His children (Hebrews 12:5-11).

Despite my Christian upbringing, I went through a period of rebellion, straying from the Lord and getting heavily involved in drugs and alcohol. I know my parents were brokenhearted to see their son fall into this trap of the enemy, yet they never gave up on me. Dad let me know he disapproved of my lifestyle, but he loved me unconditionally throughout this time – and the Lord turned my heart around!

My dad is the most intelligent, humble, loving, genuine, and godly man I know. I am so proud to call him my Dad.

I love you, Dad! Happy Father’s Day!