How Great Thou Art

Every time I hear that song, it makes me cry. It was my grandmother's favorite song, and thus became my father's favorite song. This was the first Father's Day in my life that Dad wasn't here. I couldn't call or send a card and tell him how much I love him. When they sang Dad's song at church, I couldn't stop the tears...I still can't. I looked up to heaven and said, "Happy Father's Day Pop." "I miss you so much."
I read my sister's blog and amazingly (or not so amazingly since it was inspired by God with the help of my Pop in heaven) they sang "How Great Thou Art" at her church service too. I grieve for what is lost, but rejoice for what was gained. Dad is waiting for us in heaven! I try to draw strength and joviality from that. He let me know he's listening and watching, up there with Jesus. His song will forever touch my heart with comfort and I doubt I can ever hear it again without tearing up.
My sons have a fractured, disconnected relationship with their Father. Abandonment, hurt and disappointment are the memories that most paint the picture of their relationship. They don't have a good relationship with my husband, their step-father. It is marked by criticism, condemnation, unforgiveness and anger. I grieved on Sunday (and continue to grieve this week) because they are not as blessed as I was. There are no perfect fathers, or mothers, or daughters and sons. I know this. But, my Dad was always a dad, father, counselor and protector every single minute of my life. Even when he wandered from the chosen path, the love he shared for me and my family was the kind of love God expects of his children. So, I grieve the rock that passed to a heavenly place and cling to the one our Lord provided. I will press on toward the mark, endeavoring to keep my eyes and thoughts and spirit toward heaven because now I see my Heavenly Father and my Pop when I focus there. Lord God, How TRULY Great Thou Art!