Hello, God. It's me, Mara.

You know, Lord, spiritually significant men in our lives bless us in countless ways.

First, is my father; because of his type of work, we were able to begin our day together at breakfast as he led in our family altar. We weren’t sent to church; we went as a family. My father’s life bears testimony to You, Lord.

Grandpa lived out of state, but the few times he came to visit, he told a little girl wonderful stories of heaven, streets of purest gold, many mansions, and of Grandma waiting up there for him and for us — she wanted to meet us and hug and hold us. He said he was leaving soon to meet her‚ and he did! Before he left, he mentioned that his favorite book was Revelations, and now it is mine!

By action, word and deed, one uncle rises above the rest. His children were/are youth leaders and Sunday School teachers; they were encouragers to others, in their family, also in the lives to those they worked with and for.

A friend mentioned that for her, three pastors stood out; one especially during her turbulent teen years.

Fathers-in-law also play a role by example, being active in church and having a heart tender toward You, Lord. Another friend mentioned how her father-in-law, in his declining years was a model for his family; now her husband has become a great spiritual supporter and mentor.

Two brothers shared their tender moments; their new walk with You, Lord and asked for prayers for their family to “carry the torch” and to become leaders.

Lord, thank You for these men, guide and direct each of their paths to draw the wayward ones to You, so that their, and our, family circles will be unbroken. Thank You Lord for Hebrews 13:5 which says “…. for He hath said I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.”

Love, Mara