Finishing the Race

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 

2 Timothy 4:7

Over the years I have written a great deal about my father.  He was a fine example—the very best I saw—living out the Christian life before me.  And now, at 91 years of age, God has called him home.

In reflecting on this life lived before me, I am struck by how very difficult his life was, though he was very joyful.  In times of struggle and hardship, he had a wonderful habit to go and find someone to bless.  He did this regularly, and when returning home he would always remark that he had forgotten his own hardship.

His love was like God's, too, though people often fail to understand it.  As children growing up, he did not give us what we wanted, but looked deeper, and loved us enough to give us what we needed.  When we did wrong, or even when members of the Church did wrong, he knew it was important for them to experience the consequences of their actions.  It is the only way to learn how to do right.

He sought God, and his heart's desire was to please Him.

"For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness."  Psalm 84:10

I am grateful and continue to be blessed and inspired by this life well-lived.

Goodnight, Runners.