daddy's girl

     Today is my dad's birthday! Being here in college, it makes me homesick not to be with my family on his birthday. We were blessed to spend time as a family for my mom's birthday, sister's birthday and my birthday. But I know my dad is thinking that its okay, because we got to be together for all of ours. And that brings him joy. He has always put Jesus first in his life and us three women second. And I admire that of him so much.
     Growing up as a kid, dad never persuaded me to be anyone but myself. If I wanted to be in dance, he let me. When I decided I wanted to play sports, he was thrilled and helped me. And even when I got to the age I was not enjoying sports anymore, he understood. When I got into high-school and wanted to do yearbook, he supported and encouraged me to do my best. Even during times when I struggle in life, he encourages me to be still and listen to Jesus and not to give up on His works. Even during hard times, he would bring the perfect laughter upon me. A laughter that reassured me, everything is going to be okay. Wherever I have been in life over the past 19 years, my dad has been right beside me for support. And through all the years of his encouragement, it has given me the strength to be no one but myself here in college.  I look at it like this, through the first 18 years, dad showed support and encouragement which has now provided me with confidence to be myself here in college where one can so easily become lost.
     He always showed me to let Jesus be in the driver's seat. And all I have to do is put my faith and hope in Him and life would be just fine. My dad never once has set me down and told me how to live my life. He showed me. He showed me through his actions and through his love. Not only did he show it inside our home, he shined it outside too. Rather it was in the grocery store, at church, at home, in the car... everywhere my dad goes and everyone he encounters... he shines Jesus's love.
     Reflecting over my dad's influence in my life, I see that it was not him. That it is all Jesus. It is Jesus who has been alive and working through him. And my dad has opened his heart to Jesus in everything he does. Through his love, kindness, patience, gentleness, encouragement, support, and so much more, it is all Jesus. My dad shines Jesus. He lives by faith, hope and love for Jesus Christ.
Not only has my dad been a huge influence through Jesus in my life, but my mom and sister have too. And we all play a role in our family to make us, "us." I love my mom and sister just as much as I love my dad, but today... we are celebrating our dad's birthday!
I am blessed and thankful for my family. And I know I can speak for all three of my dad's girls, we are blessed and thankful he is the head of our household.
     So... happy birthday to my dad!
     When I read this verse a few days ago, it reminded me of my dad and the way he lives each day.

Make it your ambition to lead a quite life, 

to mind your own business and to work with your hands.

So that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders 

and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12