Our Anchor

He was our anchor.
A firm foundation to steady us.
A place of refuge, quiet strength.

Always there to support, to listen.
A true friend whom we could depend.
His smile, His embrace, sincere.

Everyone felt at home with Him.
Comfortable, welcome, at ease.
Slow to anger, quick to laugh.

A new season on our horizon.
Full of new life, hope, potential.
The world wide, ready to explore.

Our sky darkened, waves crashed in.
Washing away all that was certain.
Losing our bearing, pulling us under.

Crying out, You took hold of us.
Never letting go in the raging storm.
Our Beacon of Hope, Light in our dark.

The storm raged, violent, unrelenting.
Fists to the sky, asking, “Why, Lord?”
You calmed our raging, holding us still.

The sea took away and You gave
Yourself in return, filling our void.
Bringing gentle waves of comfort.

A new day dawning, hope remains.
Still the tide moves in and out, revealing fresh loss.
Mostly coming as gentle waves of remembering.

In You we stand, steady, secure, anchored.
Our Refuge against the deep, dark, raging sea.
Our Comfort. Our Hope. Never letting go.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. ‭Psalm‬ ‭46‬:‭1-3‬ NIV

Today marks nine years since my father in law was called home. That November day shaking us to the very core. With full hearts we remember him with great love. Yet the ache of his absence in our family will always remain, this side of Heaven.

We miss our friend, Dad, Grandpa. He lives on in his sons and their children. His reflection in their warm smiles, shining eyes, corky humor and friendly, easy dispositions. Thank you Lord, for this gift.