One of the most unassuming of men, yet fondly and distinctly memorable was my maternal Grandfather. He was a fiercely loyal, yet kindly and gentle man with a most beautiful soul. Grandpa, as we all knew him, was not a tall man in stature, but as the saying goes, God only lets things grow until they are perfect; some men don’t take as long as others.

He loved to play his violin and it was most enjoyable watching him play as his strong hands with his thick fingers gingerly, with precision, mastered the strings. He loved to break out his bottle of Corona Red Sherry that he stashed in the cupboard above the fridge when my father visited. It wasn’t the best of wines but it was the best enjoyed by two men who so appreciated each other’s company. Besides, Grandpa loved it and that was good enough for my Dad, so he loved it too.

Grandpa was a distinguished military man, and railroad worker who held comfort in his spirituality which grounded him quietly throughout his life. And in his later years, he found solace in his Holy Bible. Its cover is creased and worn from his strong hand’s embrace. Its delicate pages are still pristine, I’m certain, because of Grandpa’s albeit thick but nimble fingers navigating effortlessly through his favorite passages. Most heartwarming to me, is how some pages fall open to those places Grandpa read the most.

So in honor of this kind and gentle man, I share forevermorre, Grandpa’s Home Sweet Home he found in his Worn Bible…

Psalm 19:7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.

Psalm 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

St. Luke 22:29 And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; 22:30 That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Saint John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.