[Organization Name]

I was in Cleveland this weekend at my dad's Retirement Party. It turned out to be an amazing time. My dad had already retired once before after working for BP Oil for 36 years, this time he retired after 18 years with Baptist Mid-Missions in Strongsville, Ohio. The funny thing is, he plans to go back to work part-time for the mission in a couple weeks! My dad's 73 years old and is recovering from open-heart surgery, but when the Director of the Mission told him he'd have to retire permanently becasue of his health, my dad walked into his office, held out his hands and said, "Please don't do this to me. I never went to college. I can't serve the Lord like other people can. I use my hands to serve Jesus. It's the only way I know how to do it."

The Director was so touched by these words from my dad, he decided to allow my father the opportunity to work part-time (6-9AM five days/week) until further notice.

When the Director told this story in front of the 100 or so folks present at my dad's party, I was deeply moved. It's not like my father can't walk away from work. It's not like he's struggling to find his true identity. My dad knows who he is much better than I do. My dad sees himself as a servant of Jesus and is willing to use every part of himself to serve Christ. I just hope the same can be said of me someday. Thanks again dad. You've given me a gift that's far more valuable than anything I can imagine. I love you and love the way you love Jesus!