Posted in Parenting

~ Happy Father's Day Weekend!~

I wanted to take some extra special time out to say thank you to the men who have lovingly Father'd us (whether spiritually, or by blood). 

Dad B. (Papa - Kelly's Dad) 
  Thank you for your giving heart, and wonderful ability to provide while I was growing up.  Because of your faithfulness, as a family provider and protector, I have never questioned God's ability to provide for me as I grew older.  I also love your merciful heart, which always yearns to show God's love to the underdog, and a fighter of that which is just and righteous.  I also love the way you say what you mean and mean what you say.  We always know where you stand, and love your transparency.  Thank you for being YOU.

Dad M. (Hubby's Dad) 
  Thank you for passing on the torch of music (specifically piano), as our dd plays the piano so well.  Her first glimpse of this beautiful instrument of praise was when you sat down with her for the first time at the age of 5, to teach her a few notes.  That special moment is etched in her spirit and has initiated a deep desire for her to one day play for you and bless you in return.  Thank you also for your faithfulness to the Lord, and for raising your sons in the admonition of the Lord.  Because of this I have an amazing hubby who loves the Lord with all of his heart, soul and mind.  I am forever grateful :-).

Hubby 
Words could never express my love to you, my faithful friend, confidant, playmate, husband and the father of our dd.  Your love for the Lord is beautiful and you truly love me as Christ loves the church.  We have been through so much these past 14 years, and one thing is for sure - it is better than ever, and getting better every day!  We have learned and grown together in so many ways, and the most beautiful is your heart of worship before the Lord.  When you raise you hands to worship the Lord, whether in church or in our home I know it is with a heart to truly connect on an intimate, personal level with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  No show, no hypocrisy, just pure and unadulterated LOVE.  Oh my dear husband how you take my breath away.  Thank you also for being a faithful provider and protector to Pure One and I, and my prayer is that the Lord would truly give you all the desires of your heart, not only for this Father's Day, but for eternity.  I LOVE YOU!

Our Spiritual Dad (H.E.) 
Thank you for believing in us and the work God is doing within us.  The encouragement, prophetic gifting, words of knowledge, accountability, integrity, intercessory prayer, and committment to our spiritual growth and personal relationship with our Savior is both scary and beautiful.  We have never come across a more intense, Godly soldier, whose standard of righteousness keeps us in awe, yet humility brings such grace and love.  Thank you for not walking away from us when the fire was hot, and for lovingly allowing us room to grow.  We are expectant of the work God has for us to complete together as we continue serving in  the Kingdom of God.  There is no doubt we are fitly joined for such a time as this.

Our Heavenly Father 
  To you be the glory and honor, power and majesty forever and ever.  We love you more than our spirits could ever possibly express.  We have experienced your intense LOVE, and also your intense chastisement this year, and even though at times it stings we know you love us dearly, because as you said in Hebrews 12:5-6, “ . . . My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.” Thank you for your chastisement this year, and now for your grace which encourages and gives hope.  May our hearts always thirst and yearn for more of You - always. 

<>< Kelly