He was our anchor.
\nA firm foundation to steady us.
\nA place of refuge, quiet strength.<\/p>\n

Always there to support, to listen.
\nA true friend whom we could depend.
\nHis smile, His embrace, sincere.<\/p>\n

Everyone felt at home with Him.
\nComfortable, welcome, at ease.
\nSlow to anger, quick to laugh.<\/p>\n

A new season on our horizon.
\nFull of new life, hope, potential.
\nThe world wide, ready to explore.<\/p>\n

Our sky darkened, waves crashed in.
\nWashing away all that was certain.
\nLosing our bearing, pulling us under.
\n<\/p>\n

Crying out, You took hold of us.
\nNever letting go in the raging storm.
\nOur Beacon of Hope, Light in our dark.<\/p>\n

The storm raged, violent, unrelenting.
\nFists to the sky, asking, “Why, Lord?”
\nYou calmed our raging, holding us still.<\/p>\n

The sea took away and You gave
\nYourself in return, filling our void.
\nBringing gentle waves of comfort.<\/p>\n

A new day dawning, hope remains.
\nStill the tide moves in and out, revealing fresh loss.
\nMostly coming as gentle waves of remembering.<\/p>\n

In You we stand, steady, secure, anchored.
\nOur Refuge against the deep, dark, raging sea.
\nOur Comfort. Our Hope. Never letting go.<\/p>\n

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. \u202dPsalm\u202c \u202d46\u202c:\u202d1-3\u202c NIV<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

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. <\/p>\n

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. <\/p>\n