Three Fathers and Their Son

 First thoughts... what might they be? Not the father I would have chosen. But... it seems the opportunity to choose your own father is yet to come.

One time—yes, only one lone time—do I recall him ever saying, “Son, I’m proud of you.” I do remember hugs and hearing, “I love you.” Indeed, that is good!

Then there were the baseball games—two hundred of them. Can you say, “Less than a handful”? I cannot picture, even in the faintest corners of my mind, a single moment of him watching me play. I cannot envision his face at any game. But... surely, he must have been there. Don’t you think?

The above—yes, they are important, but are they foremost? What is the most important responsibility of a father?

As I ponder this question, my eyes drift skyward through the bay window. Another sunrise is lost behind the gray skies of Oregon. Branches sway gently, shedding their final leaves, which descend softly to the dampened earth. The sight of rain—a comfort to me as refreshing as the Nevada desert—might be unwelcome to others. Yet, to many, the anticipation of moisture for the coming months is neither a welcomed sight nor thought.

This reflection delivers three amazing images of what a father should be. And some might say, “Only Rick would put it that way.” But consider this: the astonishing promise, provision, and anticipation found in a sunrise and rain.

A Great Day!

Born without the choice of who our fathers will be, I wish that every father would embrace the simple yet profound promise to provide for their children. A fundamental responsibility of fatherhood, don’t you think? And while both father and mother have long since died, I am fairly certain that Richard Ray provided little for his four children. This truth testifies to the strength of Elizabeth Anne, who never once complained. How is that possible? How does a father strike out on this, his most vital responsibility?

Then, there is anticipation. Just as each person on this incredible planet eagerly awaits another sunrise, or as an Oregonian anticipates months of gray skies and rainfall, should not a son or daughter anticipate time with their father? Should they not look forward to pearls of wisdom born from years of experience, challenges, and growth? Sadly, we received little of that.

But... this reflection is entitled Three Fathers.

From Richard Ray, I gleaned lessons primarily about what not to do as a father. I mean no disrespect, but...

Papa & Moma Jopp

Then, like a refreshing breeze on a scorching summer day, in steps Robert Earl. As children, we immediately recognized his love—not only for our mother but also for us, her children. He made a promise to her, and that promise extended to us. The responsibilities our mother once shouldered alone became shared through marriage.

One rainy fall weekend, a scout trip nearly fell apart. For Southern California boys, camping in the rain was worse than being stuck at home writing a book report—remember those? Yet, in stepped Robert Earl. Unfazed by the rain, he set up camp with the same joy and energy as if it were a perfect, sunny day. His infectious smile and cheerful demeanor transformed the dreary weekend into a vibrant adventure.

Or consider the day I was thirteen, playing on my Colts Babe Ruth baseball team. A meeting of managers and parents had determined the fields required maintenance before the season. A workday was scheduled, but like the scout trip, the weather was dreary, and many opted to reschedule. Not Robert Earl! As others debated what to do, he grabbed tools and led the charge. His determination inspired others to follow, and with far fewer volunteers than promised, the work got done.

Dad, these simple yet powerful acts have remained with me for over fifty years. They stand as examples of some of the most valuable lessons I have ever learned. A father’s promise provided an example—the example of what it means to be a man. Thank you!

Now, at sixty-six years old, I continue to anticipate your promise and provision. You have profoundly influenced my life and the lives of my siblings and all those you love. Robert Earl, your steadfast example has shaped me, and I have made it my mission to pass these same treasured principles to those in my life.

And who is this “Third Father”?

The concept, “I will never leave you, nor forsake you,” is a promise that echoes throughout Scripture. First spoken to Moses in Deuteronomy 31:6 as he prepared to pass the torch of leadership, Moses reassures the Israelites and their new leader, Joshua, of God’s unwavering presence. This promise is reaffirmed in Joshua 1:5-9, where the Lord speaks directly to Joshua, calling him to lead Israel into the Promised Land. Both passages are intertwined with a powerful command: “Be strong and courageous.”

In the New Testament, Hebrews 13:5-6 expands this timeless promise, applying it to human relationships and daily provision. We are reminded that God’s presence is not confined to moments of leadership or conquest but extends to every aspect of life. His promise assures us that He is with us in every season, weaving people into our lives in ways we may not expect.

Whether they are beloved companions, adversaries, or strangers, each plays a role in His divine plan. Additionally, God’s provision teaches us to place our trust in Him rather than material wealth or human solutions. In all things, He is our ultimate source of security and sufficiency.

Our Heavenly Father’s promise is unchanging: He will never leave us nor forsake us. He walks with us through every joy, every challenge, and every relationship. His steadfast presence gives us the courage to be strong, the assurance to move forward in faith, and the peace to be content, knowing that He is—and always will be—enough.

So, there it is... three fathers and their son.

Though Richard Ray was not the father I would have chosen, I know that our Heavenly Father placed him in my life for a reason. Many of those reasons taught me what not to do, yet they also guided me to different conclusions.

And even in the imperfections, I am grateful. Grateful that reflection and grace allow me to glean positive moments and meaningful lessons. Every experience, even those shaped by flaws, has contributed to who I am today.

Our Heavenly Father, in His infinite wisdom, uses every circumstance to shape us, grow us, and teach us. And for that, I remain deeply thankful.

 

 I recognize that the significance of the father is deeply woven throughout Scripture, offering us profound insights into its meaning and importance. From the faith and legacy of Father Abraham to the tender compassion of the father who runs toward the Prodigal Son, the role of the father is a recurring theme of strength, love, and reconciliation. Scripture also commands us to "Honor your father and mother" (Exodus 20:12), highlighting the sacred bond and responsibility inherent in this role.

These examples—and many more—point to the rich possibilities within the idea of 'father.' My prayer and hope are that I, and we as fathers, can continually seek wisdom and grace to fulfill the calling of fatherhood, striving to become the fathers our children need. Let us reflect the love, guidance, and faithfulness of our Heavenly Father, whose example is perfect and unwavering.

Lastly .... I want to be fair to 'Richard Ray' .... As I mentioned above, he was "Placed in my life for a reason". And some of those reasons indeed have had lasting impacts. Some are found written in previous blogs. Such as .... Baseball and the Babe, Smell of the Mitt, Our Fathers, Their Sons, You Are, Sequoia 2011...A 40th Anniversary Climb - To Dad