An example

We have been visiting, well I haven't, but my family has, a dying man. He is in hospice and has pancreatic cancer. As they discussed treatments, he decided to reject them. He's a beacon of strength and faith. His wife passed away not too long ago and shortly after he decided that he'd had enough of his medications...and stopped taking them. The doctor told him that he was a big boy and could do what he wanted to...I don't want him to go. But, my guess is he's tired, knows his destination and misses his wife.

He's the perfect person for the role he plays at our church - he's the greeter. He has a smile on his face and candy in his pocket. You don't really notice that he's got a hearing aid until you get to know him and talk with him but get no response. He's not unfriendly...he just can't hear you! You learn to live with that and speak to his face. He's full of wisdom and know how. His garden produces and abundant crop which he gladly shares. We get invited over quite a bit when it's harvest time - and we love it. Frankly, we love him. 

It's a funny thing because I'm only a friend to him because of my kids and wife. For some reason, he was drawn to my kids and my kids to him...we'd see him at church and he'd shake my hand, pass out candy to the kiddos and talk about gardening. See he knows we are interested in that and as I mentioned, he's a pro. Not only at gardening...but, talking about stuff that we're working on. He's perfect for that job...see? 

As I think about him I can hardly keep from tearing up. What's more weird is that I've only spent about 4 hours with him total...my family a little more...but, not as much as we should have. He's been to my house looking at my garden, letting us borrow his tiller and introducing my family to his brother - I was at work and missed out. So, why is it that this is affecting me so much? 

My guess is that he's the real life rendition of the person I want around my kids. He's gentle when he speaks, but very confident. He smiles....a lot. He is very giving. He's patient (at least around us). He's full of wisdom. He knows the Lord. He doesn't love this life more than he should.

Look for that kind of man to be an example to you...I hope that's me someday.