When Your Hero Dies...Then What?
On Wednesday morning (1/22/2020) I got the call that my dad had passed during the night.
It wasn’t totally unexpected. Dad had been dealing with congestive heart failure, but his death was/is still a major, major loss.
My dad was my hero.
Not because he was perfect, he wasn’t. Dad was my hero because:
At the age of 30 Dad made a decision to follow Jesus Christ and for 59 years was a faithful follower to the very end.
Dad was married and faithful to my mom for 63 years.
Dad faithfully pastored churches - in rural areas - for 54 years.
Dad (and mom) raised 7 children, all who are following Jesus, with sons, daughters, grandsons, and granddaughters - doing the same.
Dad was a man of his word. If he said he would do it, he would.
Dad was kind and compassionate and helped thousands of people along the way.
Dad taught me well, loved me deeply, and gave me a great spiritual inheritance.
What more could a son ask!
A good, good man
The scripture verse I think most accurately describes my dad’s life is Proverbs 22:1
A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.
Dad didn’t leave behind any silver or gold, but he did leave behind a good name and a great spiritual inheritance. Nothing, absolutely nothing, can buy that!
Now what?
Now that my hero’s passed, here are few ways I’m responding.
First of all, I’m embracing the sorrow.
To grieve well is a healthy thing, therefore, I’m leaning into the sadness and sorrow I feel from my dad’s death. But, thankfully, I’m able to do so without any regret. I’m also grieving, but not as someone without hope. Because of my faith in the work of Jesus Christ - I know I will one day be reunited with Dad…and with other loved ones that have already passed. My hope is not some kind of pipe dream, or pie-in-the-sky psychological crutch, my hope is based upon the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ!
Secondly, I’m continuing to live a life of purpose.
My dad was a good, good man who lived a good, good life. I want to do the same. We desperately need more good men and women. Men and women with more kindness and compassion, men and women who are honest and honorable, men and women who are gracious and generous. That’s who my dad was, and that’s who I want to further become.
Final Words
I’m certain my father has already heard these words from his Father, “Well done good and faithful servant, enter into the joys I’ve prepared for you.” I want to live my life in a way that I’ll hear these same words from my Father one day.
I trust you’ll do the same.
Living on Purpose
Ken L Roberts
PS. If I can further help you live a more purposeful life, simply email me at ken@kenlroberts.com or call me on my cell at 216-374-0016. I’d be honored to help.