Honoring Rocky by Bryan Craig

I was searching high and low, to find my way in life.  
A desperate man with four young girls and a loving wife.
But something gnawed within my soul, a mystery to be solved.
And discipleship was on my mind, it somehow was involved.
I’d also longed for mentorship, some help from older men.  
All the Christian men I knew, were great, but more like friends.
In my darkness, light emerged, in a manuscript.  
The Journey book was not yet born, yet its pages quickly flipped.
Whoever wrote these sacred words was speaking to my heart.  
I had to go and find the source, my Journey yet to start.
A humble group of seeking men, gathered to abide.  
And there I found The Influencer seated by my side.
He took an interest in my life, he wanted to know more.  
He encouraged me and showed the way to an open door.
He helped me start a Journey group and mentored me along.  
He’d call me just to check on me and keep me standing strong.
I’d never met a man like this, who loved me like a Dad.  
Who shared with me the deeper things and gave me all he had.
He helped me find my missing link, which came from up above.  
The Journey was a clear pathway to find the Father’s love.  
Along the way, I gained a friend, a Coach, a Dad, a Brother.  
We found a sacred, common bond, though different from each other. 

We’ve been on journeys far and wide, we’ve seen this garden grow.  
We see the fruit abundantly, everywhere we go.
I’ve watched this man pouring out, never holding back.  
I’ve seen him take the higher ground, when enduring an attack.
I’ve seen him pray continually, and treasuring the Word.  
I’ve watched him use his writing gift to share the things he heard.
I’ve heard him speak the truth in love, though sometimes hard to hear.  
And later valued his strong words as lessons oh so clear.
I’ve seen him push himself so hard, beyond the ways of man. 
Committed to the very end, to take a faithful stand.
Rocky, I’m just one small branch, in your spiritual family tree.  
I know the tree is massive and I know someday you’ll see.
Thank you for your time and love and your belief in me.  
You’ve always seen some things in me that I was blind to see.
Thank you for your sacrifice for weary, human souls.  
For putting all your needs aside and all your earthly goals.
You truly are an Influencer, your armor shines so bright.  
I know the Lord is pleased with you, for fighting the good fight.
I love you, Rock, and honor you, for 80 faithful years.  
I’m thankful God created you and for letting me be near.

Happy 80th Rocky.

Your spiritual son,
Bryan