PHILIPPIANS 4:8

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

PHILIPPIANS 4:8

I’m the one who views in secret,
the way you truly are.
The way you really live your life,
not looking from afar.
I see a Father full of truth,
much different from the rest.
Nobleness is sent forth from you,
as you brave humbleness.

Respectable, your earthly ways,
too right to be ignored.
Character that I desire,
through our family cord.
Purity emerges,
deriving from your heart.
A cleanliness that Christ doth see,
it’s like a work of art.

Lovely are your gentle ways,
quite tender is your care.
Captivating, your love for mom,
a treasure we both share.
You’re a man to be admired,
esteemed, and adored.
Prized above a million men,
for this I praise the Lord.

The most excellent example,
of Christ’s sacrificial love.
The way you lay down your life,
for the ones you love.
A Father who’s so loving, 
so gentle, and so kind.
I’m thankful that our God saw fit,
to make you, Father mine.

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my inspiration 

I wrote this poem for my dad, John Kennedy, for Father’s Day 2022. I remember contemplating the line, “Nobleness is sent forth from you, as you brave humbleness.” I went back and forth on the word brave. How and when would you need to brave humbleness? Yet, I felt it was right.

It wasn’t until we left Kansas University Medical Center on July 19, 2022 – with my dad’s diagnosis of ALS – the line in this poem made total sense. It was going to take a tremendous amount of bravery to face the inevitable humbleness that ALS would bring. My dad is the bravest person I know.

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This poem was featured in an art collaboration with Lioncub Creative

PHILIPPIANS 4:8

01 May 2022

PROVERBS 1:8-9

 

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.

PROVERBS 1:8-9

Honeysuckle fills the air,
like drops of dew loved ones share.
Tender, gentle words of truth,
blessings that will come to proof.

Fear the Lord above all else.
He'll guide your ways, despite yourself.
Dripping, falling off our tongues,
into life, these words do run.

Love the Lord with all your heart.
He'll carry you when we depart.
Pouring gently like a spout,
permeate as we walk about.

To love your neighbor as yourself
is worth more than all the wealth.
Wisdom, knowledge fill the air;
accept them as a treasure shared.

Royal attire 'round your neck
are riches that are heaven-sent.
Like honeysuckle twisted 'round
these graceful teachings do abound.

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my inspiration 

When writing this poem, I thought deeply about the rich heritage of faith that my Father and Mother poured into my life. I never fully understood my parent’s love for me – until giving birth to my daughter, Lydia Beth. There is something sacred and beautiful about being a mother. I want to pass these rich truths on to my daughter. My desire is for Lydia Beth to know and believe:

“Fear the Lord above all else. He’ll guide your ways, despite yourself. Dripping, falling off our tongues, into life, these words do run. Love the Lord with all your heart. He’ll carry you when we depart. Pouring gently like a spout, permeate as we walk about.”

May it be a natural conversation to fear and love Jesus throughout our days.

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This poem was featured in an art collaboration with Lioncub Creative.

PROVERBS 1:8-9