As I say goodbye to my father through this blog, emotions flood. I am grieving that I cannot see him on this earth anymore, sad that he can't physically hold my children and hurting that my mother is alone after 38 years with her "heart". But through that I praise the Lord that my father is where he has dreamed of all his life, and I am so happy that his legacy continues here through his family and friends.
I got to spend the last night Dad had on this earth with him. We thought we had more time with him, so we were "taking turns" to stay up with him and make sure he wasn't in pain. And God allowed some amazing memories during that night-we prayed, we read scripture, we sang, and we even had "church" with David Jeremiah that Sunday morning. Daddy couldn't speak by that point, but he was able to communicate through body language. And even then, his last hours on earth, he focused on his passions-Jesus and family. God even granted his "girls" to be with him in his final moment-and I am SURE we witnessed my Daddy seeing his Lord and Savior! What an awesome moment that I will never forget. And now his passion has realized all of our hopes for him!
Our only wish and prayer now, as Gary's family, is that you create and continue a legacy through your family. Family was the most important thing to him; I remember our "family time" we had when we went on vacations, went out to movies or to eat, or even just watched TV together as a family. I remember what my dad gave up to be with us-he could have had a big career, traveling and speaking all over the world. But he chose to come home every night to be with his bride and children. And now we will continue that-choosing family over all the wordly things that do not mean as much. We pray you can do the same.
Please visit his memorial site at http://www.mem.com/. Simply type in his name in the "Search" section on the left side. You can leave messages, see pictures, and we will even try to put some of his "spots" from Faith Radio on there that you can hear! I will work to keep updating that as find things here and there in the future.
We are honored that you chose to remain in touch with us through this blog, and it is hard to say goodbye to you as well. I have learned about those who have posted comments-Daddy always asked if anyone left one and then told me all about the people who did. We know you will not forget Gary, and please praise our Redeemer that we can see him again one day!
In closing, please read one of Dad's favorite passages (for all of them at one time were his "favorites"!). He wanted to live his life according to this passage, and I believe the Lord told him "welcome my good and faithful servant, full of integrity" when Daddy met him.
We love you.
Psalm 15
Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy
hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman, who despises a vile man but honors those who fear the Lord, who keeps his oath even when it hurts, who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things will never be shaken.
