I don’t ever remember him flexing his biceps, reminding his wife that he was the head of the home, or bragging about his exploits. He served in the Korean war as a paratrooper and saw things in combat that later cause disturbing dreams, but he never told the gruesome stories, or claimed to be a hero. As a college student I had a chance to work with him for a summer at an oil refinery. His rough and tumble coworkers were crude, testosterone-driven men who were always trying to outdo one another or game the system. He just did his job quietly and honestly, and made no effort to demonstrate his prowess. 

Some may have been unimpressed, but I was impressed. And, as I have grown older I have become even more impressed. My father never cheated on his wife. He never wasted his money on drugs, alcohol or frivolous activities.  He did not live beyond his means and was always honest. As a result, he lived in a modest home and drove second-hand cars. But he died a rich man. He was rich in that his five children loved him and honored him as a good and faithful husband and father. He passed his faith on to the next generation, and even had some financial blessing to give them when he died. 

One example of my father’s greatness took place in my teens. He worked shift work, making it difficult to do things together as a family, such as church. I remember the day he told us he would be taking a cut in pay to move to a day job so we could have more family time. It was a move that looked foolish to many; he paid for it in hard cash. But his actions spoke louder than words. 

Those quiet and unassuming actions of faith and integrity are what made him a such a good father. I don’t resent the fact that he was not rich or famous. I do not regret humble vacations or living in a smaller house than his over-extended peers. I am certain it was his authenticity that influenced all of his children to spend a portion of their lives in full time ministry. 

The world needs more unassuming fathers – men who do not let society goad them into being macho or successful. Men who are just good, solid dads. Men who change lives every time they make an honest choice or take an unpopular position. Fathers who recognize the value of their own honesty, integrity and humility will inspire future generations and change the world. Their children will rise up and call them blessed.