I started out writing about our journey over the last nine years in the loss of our son. Things like what we have been through, how we have endured, where we are now, but as I sat at my desk looking at the picture staring back at me of my son holding a huge bass, my thought process changed. What would Gary want me to write about on this 9th anniversary of his home going? I knew the answer right away: Fishermen
Oh how our son loved to fish! It all started when Ed took him to a pond at a very young age where he caught a mega bass. He was hooked - pun intended. Seemed like no matter where he fished, he always caught something. When he was still in elementary school, he had permission to fish a small pond behind our house. It took about five minutes and out came a 10lb.+ catfish! I have a great memory from that day and pictures to prove it's not just a fish tale.
I'm so thankful that we have so many good memories of our son. What a blessing that is to us when we reminisce. One of the things Ed said he missed most about Gary was hearing his dramatic hunting and fishing stories. His enthusiasm was catching.
How proud and excited Gary would be to fish in a tournament like the very one in his memory. The first tournament in 2009, was less than three months after his passing. There were 131 boats, around 260 fishermen who came to support his memory. The sight of them meant more to us than they will ever realize and brings tears to my eyes even now. The tournaments since have been tremendous because of their support.. The word "support" in the dictionary can mean to give help or assistance; to show that you agree or approve; to promote a cause; even to comfort. But my favorite part of this word derives from a synonym: Champion. During the three day search for our son, there were fishermen, Gary's friends and acquaintances who were out in their boats using depth finders to help with the search. I have such a special place in my heart for fishermen. Champions in my eyes.
Jesus loves fishermen. He handpicked four to be His disciples, three of whom were closest to Him: Peter, James and John. Andrew was also a fisherman. He was continually bringing others to Jesus. Jesus related to these guys in fishing terms: "I will make you fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19). The parable of the net (Matthew 13:47-52). In Matthew 17:24-27, Jesus had Peter go fishing for the temple tax where he found the necessary coin in the mouth of the first fish he caught. After Jesus Resurrection, there was a miraculous catch of fish, then breakfast of fish. At times, Jesus taught from standing in the fishermen's boat. Yes, I believe Jesus has a special place in His heart for fishermen. He used these fishing illustrations and visuals in ways they could understand and know Him better. It is a wise and brave fisherman who launches their boat out into the waters of faith for Jesus' sake.
We love and miss our fisherman more than words can express. We know we will see him again because Jesus promised that, and "The yes to all of God's promises is in Christ" (2 Corinthians 1:20 ERV). So this is a comfort to us. Still, it doesn't take the pain away from the here and now. The longing for his presence, his voice, his laughter, his smell, and just to have a simple conversation with him is at times overwhelming.
Being in the fishing world there are just some things you know: The waters may not always be smooth - storms will arise. When they do, your Anchor is Jesus. If He is in your boat, you can endure the storm. You will have a safe landing whether it be here on earth or finally in heaven. You can't lose either way. Thank you Jesus for fishermen.
