Listen to your father, who gave you life,and do not despise your mother when she is old.Proverbs 23:22

My Dad is a pretty humble guy these days.

His ears aren't great. His eyes are even worse. And in general, his body is relentlessly betraying him in bits and pieces.

Still, the softness of his disposition isn't a reflection of physical infirmities. If asked, Dad will tell you it's because God's been working on his heart and drawing him into a closer relationship with him.

To know my Dad, aka "Fletch," is to know that he talks about God A LOT...in fact, this how a typical exchange goes:

7A ET/4PT phone rings-

"Hey Dad! What's up?"

"Well, I'm just sitting here praying for you and thought I should call."

"Awesome! Thanks. What are you praying about?"

"I'm so glad God blessed me with you. I'm so proud of you!"

"Why thanks Dad. How are you doing?"

"Oh, not bad for an old man. I have my ups and downs. But even I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future!"

[insert an update on choir, politics, or Mom's whereabouts]

"All right Dad, I'll talk with you soon!"

"Can I pray with you before we hang up?"

"Sure!"

"God, thank you for Joy. Bless her real good. In Jesus' name. Amen."

I'm betting if you call my Dad, your conversation will sound remarkably similar. Dad is showing me how he's learning (at 82 years young) the essence of life is to love well.

I am proud to know him and learn from him as he lives.

The happiest of Father's Days to Fletch.

God, bless him real good.