My Dad is one of the best men I know.  I realize that many of you do not have an earthly Father that cared for you well or showed and shared a love for you and for that I am truly sorry.  However, God graced me by placing me under the unique leadership of my Dad.  Here are some of the things that Dad has taught me best!

1. How to love my wife.  Since my childhood, I have watched my Dad love my Mom selflessly and tirelessly.  He often writes her love notes and finds ways to adorn her with special gifts.
2. How to love my kids.  Dad always looked for ways to connect with his kids.  Sometimes that was challenging because our likes were not the same as his, but he looked for ways to play, watch, and enjoy life together.  He also gave up his own wishes to provide the things in life that we wanted.
3. How to work hard.  There is no doubt Dad has always been a hard worker.  He is dedicated to the ministry that is given to his charge and always goes above and beyond.
4. How to invest in others.  Dad has always had a group of men that he is particularly caring for.  Whether he is leading them in singing, riding in a dogsled, or hiking Kilimanjaro, he is always looking for ways to invest in them.
5. How to love the nations.  Even before it was popular to take short-term mission trips my Dad was leading teams around the world.  When I was 5 years old my Dad took my family, along with a large group of single adults, from Charlotte, N.C. all the way to northern New York state and even crossed into Canada.  This instilled a love for the nations for me and the rest of my family.
6. How to love the Lord.  My Dad has done all these things well because he loves the Lord well.  He is devoted to quality time in the Word and significant time in prayer.

What are some of the things you learned from your Dad?