July 5, 2010
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GOD RESTORES THE LOST YEARS

“I will restore to you the years the locusts have eaten—
the great locust and the young locust,
the other locusts and the locust swarm—
my great army that I sent among you.”
J oel 2:25

Most of our readers know that after going into ministry almost thirty years ago, our twin sons Dan and Tom began their education and ultimate careers in directing choirs.  It is wonderful to see their amazing gifts utilized for Kingdom work, but we sure miss spending quality time with them. 

Louise and I found that obeying God’s calling isn’t always convenient or conducive to developing close relationships with family, especially grandchildren.  The calling upon their lives has directed Dan and Tom to Greensboro, North Carolina and Nashville, Tennessee – a long way from Northern Idaho.  We cherish every moment we get to see our family. 

On a recent trip to a wonderful Alaskan fishing lodge, owned by my friends Tim and Murtie Comer, my son Tom, grandson Tyler, and myself took some time to enjoy catching up on our relationship.  We had great fun reminiscing about the past and developing new memories as we landed several big king and silver salmon.

Even the best of trips will never restore the unattended football games, recitals, school plays, and birthdays Louise and I missed by not being closer to our sons’ families.  But scripture promises that we will have our eternal reward for the time that is lost here on earth.  Those times will be restored upon Christ’s return.

“Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.  They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God”. (Rev. 21:3-4)

Jim Dobson was right when he said, “Some of life’s most precious memories are built around moments of leisure.”  Dads and granddads, take the time and the resources necessary to develop memories with your family.  You’ll never regret the investment.