I’m reflecting on my parents today. My dad is in the process of retiring from ministry after being a pastor since he was in college. He has been a pastor my entire life, mainly serving at small country churches in parts of central Indiana. He’s an example of faithfulness and consistency and has always been a role model for me as long as I can remember. He still inspires me, and I hope I can remain as faithful and steady as he has been over his lifetime.

I grew up in a small church and we were there A LOT. I remember lots of hymn singing and kids programs; VBS and church dinners. My sister and I used to get into trouble playing dodgeball in the church basement. You know… those pastor’s kids! I remember loving it. It was home and those people were like family.

My dad was always visiting people, and I remember tagging along in nursing homes and hospitals. We’d visit people in their homes and pray with them. Mostly, people liked to tell stories and talk about their families. Dad would talk about farming and weather and all the stuff that makes up life. He would hear about their troubles and share hope in Jesus with them.

My mom was always there too. My parents are a team in every way. I remember hosting many gatherings in our home and my mom would make beef and noodles and her famous rolls. They always had a large garden and loved people with food. My mom would love people with her hospitality and cooking while my dad was loving people with prayer and the word of God. He preached and she played the piano. It was not a grandiose formula, but it worked.

I wasn’t a student of theology and church history back then. I didn’t know about doctrines and beliefs, but that was okay. I met God in a church that loved well. To this day, my dad is a learner and reader. He’s curious about the ways of God and continually is seeking to go deeper. He shares his discoveries with me, just like his congregation. He chases after Jesus and we all benefit.

Reflecting on this makes me wonder who I am shaping? Our lives deeply affect those around us in ways we may never know. I know my dad isn’t perfect because he shared his struggles with me too. He is a humble, yet strong man of God. His relationship with Jesus is deep and evident. I still look up to him. He may step down from leading a church next month, but he is still a pastor. He is still a mirror that reflects the goodness of God to the world. His faithfulness has shaped me and I am forever grateful.

From Peter's Blog: https://peterbales.substack.com