Categories Menu

Posted by on Oct 19, 2015 in Faith |

What My Dad Got Right

What My Dad Got Right

“Then Jacob called his sons and said, ‘Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you what shall happen to you in days to come‘” (Gen. 49:1).

In my earliest years my family was intact. Dad and mom were together in ministry and connected in rearing my brother and me. There are a few things I remember from those early days – things that were said or done – treasures which I hold closely to my heart.

I remember our parents asking us if we’d care for them when they got old and needed extra attention. That made an impression on me as it gave me a window into the future reality that these rocks in my life would someday not be rocks – they’d need my strength.

My dad was in bi-vocational ministry in those days; that is, he served in ministry but supported his family by other means. He had a heart for serving Jesus. He took the call of God on his life very seriously. I commend him for his commitment.

“My sons: Philip, you’re going to be an evangelist, and James, you’re going to be a pastor. Evangelist Philip and Pastor James,” my dad used to tell us repeatedly.

Who knew his words would prove to be prophetic? Though he had a severe mental, emotional, and spiritual breakdown in life; nevertheless, his words live on in fulfillment. My brother has been serving in the role of an evangelist as a missionary on the continent of Africa for more than 20 years, and I am a pastor. I don’t believe that it was necessarily the force of our father’s spoken words that caused this course of our lives. It is the hand of our Heavenly Father. But I have to wonder if God graciously revealed His intention to my dad’s soul – which then came out through my earthly dad’s words?

Maybe someday God will let us know. In the meantime, I’m enjoyed a rare visit with my brother this past weekend, and, for the first time as a pastor, I had the privilege of hosting Philip at the church where I serve. Phil preached on Sunday morning and gave a mission’s presentation in the evening. The evangelist and the pastor – together again – even if for just a moment.

“Dear Lord, help me to use my words carefully when I speak to my children. May they serve You all the days of their lives. Give me insight into Your desire for them and help me to speak accordingly. Amen.”

About The Author

James Hunt

James serves as the Senior Pastor of First Southern Baptist Church in Guthrie, OK. He loves serving Jesus by serving God's people. He also enjoys spending time with his wife of over 20 years as well as his four children. You'll find him just as comfortable in the office deep in thought as he is at a rodeo. He likes boots, jeans, and state park trips with the family. His dream car is actually a 1968 truck. His favorite bicycle is one with a big motor. Of course, he has neither a motorcycle nor an old truck. But a guy can dream, right?

James Hunt has blogged 53 posts at wordslingersok.com

Comments are closed.