I wrote the most difficult thing in my life last week—my Dad’s obituary. Those words are still hard to type. Three weeks ago, we rushed my Dad to the emergency room and learned his C02 level was 160; normal is between 35-40. His brain was not telling his body to release it. Then, a week and a half later, he was diagnosed with ALS. It’s a rare and difficult fatal disease, unfortunately. We are grateful Dad did not suffer long with it and is now in the arms of the Savior. Our comfort is knowing Dad’s faith has been made sight.

I learned so much from him—how to love, lead, and navigate life on this side of eternity. I will miss him so much and am thankful for the 38 years we spent together. I’m grateful that Jesus is alive, and through the power of the resurrection, this is not goodbye, but rather, see you later.

When I thought about what to say at his funeral, the word hero kept coming to mind. You see…

Some heroes wear capes at night
While others say, “Sleep tight,” and turn out the light
Some heroes help and then wave goodbye
While others say, “It’s okay; give it another try”
Some heroes bust through closed doors
While others teach you to help Mom with the chores
Some heroes climb up buildings ten stories tall
While others show you how to hit a curveball
Some heroes are faster than a BMW
While others ensure you know how much they love you
Some heroes answer if you ask
While others explain the importance of finishing the task
Some heroes respond in a quick dash
While others want a straight line cut for the grass
Some heroes are admired by large crowds
While others make sure you know they are proud
Some heroes know exactly what to say and do
While others exclaim, “Keep it at ten and two”
Some heroes try to meet every need
While others set up the family Christmas tree
Some heroes shine and glow so bright
While others beam when they see your bride in white
Some heroes respond in an instant
While others keep those grandkids at a safe distance
Some heroes seem to have no bounds
While others point you to the One who brings the lost to found
Some heroes work until the job is done
While others are now in the presence of the One who was, and is, and is to come
Some heroes are longed-for
While others would want you to know you can have life forevermore
Some heroes give you everything they had
And if you are lucky, you will be able to call your hero…Dad.