Footprints of Faith

Today I joined a host of old friends in paying tribute to a life well-lived at the homegoing service of Dan Hoffpauir. Dan and Edith were two of the heroes of my youth. Dan was instrumental in leading my oldest brother to the Lord, and Edith played a vital role in my own faith journey, especially during my teen years. Like a lot of kids, I had a sharp eye for anything phony, but these two never disappointed me. Their faith was an integral part - the ultimate definition - of who they were and how they lived. They were the "real deal," and the care and encouragement they poured into people was always authentic.

Their generation is slipping away from us so quickly. It is humbling to realize that my children and their friends must now search for role models of faith among my peer group. I could never hope to fill the shoes of the saints of my youth. But today, as I've reflected on the life and faith of Dan Hoffpauir, I've been asking God to help me follow the footprints.