Leave a legacy like Tim Russert

photo from celebrity.elle.com

Pastor Bob shared on Father's Day in his sermon how father's need to be reminded that your children are watching your decisions you make in life. My decision as a father affects the destiny of my children. Whoa! What a responsibility.

His message has its application in the life of Tim Russert. Russert exemplified a heart for faith and family. As a father whose faith mattered and whose family mattered as well, I find his example where our children will still remember the kind of father we were. Luke Russert shares his reflections upon his father's life--his father, Tim Russert, died from a massive heart attack on Friday, June 13. His memorial service is going to be shown today at 4:30 on MSNBC. You can view other recollections of a man who impacted those around him regarding his choice to value his faith and his family.

I trust that you will see the disonance in your life and choose to apply the message that Pastor Bob shared about five major decisions every father faces. May you decide to be a difference-maker in the lives of those around you--Tim Russert did, a father who passionately embraced faith and who passionately loved his family. Russert exemplified that leadership shows strength over laziness. I want to show leadership in my family, not laziness.

I went to the park near the Nick Amster/Ida Sue schools last night to "walk" with my family and mother-in-law, Margie Buriff. As I strolled around the loop, I ate a quick sandwich, apple, and drink. Then the boys wanted me to play soccer with them. After a full day, a full stomach, and a full lap, I thought of saying not this time; but I recall the challenge from the Bible that Pastor Bob shared--leadership or laziness; presents or presence; consistency or convenient. It would be lazy for me to give an excuse. It would have been more convenient to offer a reason for not playing. But praise God I won that battle and chose leadership and consistency so that I can remain present in my family's life. I am still on the journey for learning how to be a great father. The battle is daily. So I choose to unsheath my sword to battle to make decisions that will lead my family in a God-honoring way.