Letter To My Father: 6 Years After His Death

Dear Dad,

It is crazy to think that you have been gone for 6 years. I am growing up and I am sad that you are not here to see. Now, I know it if far better for you to be rejoicing with the saints above, but some days I wish you would have had a little more time here.

Dad, guess what? I got married! Tamila is the most beautiful, godly girl I know. She is teaching me so much. She has a heart like yours, always willing to serve anyone who the Lord puts in front of her. She has a heart for the lowly people of this world. I love that about her. Dad, it is crazy how we got to know each other. Almost three years after you died, her dad died in a crazy accident. It was amazing to see God work in their family, and it was amazing that God used me to encourage their family through the difficult times. It is funny they way God works. I never met her father. She never met you. Maybe it is better that way.

I know I never told you, maybe you knew it without me knowing, but I want to be a pastor. I moved to Kentucky to go to seminary. I am learning more and more about our amazing God everyday–although, you are getting that experience too, in a much different, fuller way. I am thankful for these men teaching me, God has gifted them to train pastors for the work of the ministry. Some days I wish I could just call you to tell you all I have learning. I often wonder what you would say to all my theological questions.

I can’t wait to preach. Like you did in your last months of living. I am still amazed about the amount of people who got to hear the gospel because of your situation.  Whether it was sitting by your bedside, or hearing it at your funeral, people heard it. There were even some who trusted Christ for the forgiveness of sins, because they heard of this glorious gospel. God is so gracious, not that you didn’t already know that.

As for the family, Mom is doing well. She has grown in the Lord in amazing ways since you left! I know she misses you, though she doesn’t really talk about it. She just wants your hand to hold. As for Josh, he is turning into a great young man. He went to school to become a chef and now is now working hard at making great tasting food. I would not be surprised if he owns his own restaurant someday. He loves people, just like you did. As for sis, she is almost grown up! Can you believe it she is in college! Your baby girl, 19 years old. I’ll have you know she is growing into a beautiful, godly woman. You would be proud of your family.

I know you loved my friends, even like they were your own. I am encouraged to say that God has done amazing things in their lives. Some got married, all to spouses who build them up in the faith. Some have moved to other churches, but they are all serving the Lord and serving His people faithfully. Some are getting ready for the mission field, and one it already on the field! I know you would be proud of them. You always loved them so much.

I have so many questions for you. What’s it like to be in Heaven? What is like to see Jesus’ face? How loud do people in Heaven sing? What is it like to live without sin or pain? I know you won’t answer these questions (actually, it might be a little freaky if you did). I guess I will just have to wait for the day I am in heaven with you.

I miss you, dad. I hope to see you some day,

Your Son

**Originally Posted On January 25, 2012**

(Photo by Aaron Watt)