August 5

August 5th, 2025 — A Holy Reflection

Today would have been my father’s 97th birthday.

He accomplished so much in life. One of his goals was to live to be 100...

But in his final days, I could see it—he was ready. Ready for peace. Ready for Home.

And still...

Sunday hit different.

I saw his picture. And it wasn't just a memory—it was a moment. A moment that reminded me it was just a year ago that I was physically with him.

Grief swept in. Depression tried to settle down.

But I had to fight.

And so, I called on the name of the Lord.

And just like He promised... He showed up.

This morning, I heard the voice of God whisper:

“Lo, I am with you always, even until the end of the world.”

Do you know how powerful that is?

Not just poetic. Not just comforting. True.

God is with us—right now.

In the grief.

In the tears.

In the questions.

In the empty chair at the table.

In the memories that feel like they happened just yesterday.

His Word is still true.

His Love still covers.

His Goodness and Mercy still follow.

His Faithfulness still guides.

Why do we fear?

Why do we forget?

Sometimes we go through pain not just for our own growth, but so we can remind each other:

God is still here.

He still loves.

He still protects.

He still fulfills dreams—yes, even the ones our parents carried and passed down to us.

So today, I worship.

Not just in memory—but in hope.

Not just in tears—but in trust.

I lift my voice and say:

I love You, Jesus.

I worship and adore You.

Just want to tell You...

Lord, I love You more than anything.

Happy Heavenly Birthday, Dad.

Thank you, Jesus.

You’ve never left me. And You never will.

—Pastor Stephän Kirby

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