Three-score and Ten: Tribute to Dad by Brad Jersak

Today I asked a friend how I might best honour my father as he attains the landmark of his seventieth birthday. He wryly suggested that I compose a limerick, which should go over well in any hometown with an Irish name. I’ll spare you.

Rather, I’d like to say thanks to my dad for truly living by certain values that are counter-intuitive to the world’s standards. Every parent is called to raise and train their child as best they can, according to what seems right. Many do this quite well. Fewer have the courage to buck the systems that pressure us to conform to the prevalent rules of the game. In his subtle and subversive and perhaps subconscious ways, my dad did this for my brother and I. I think it’s worth sharing on this special occasion.

First, Dad showed us that real character is not about measuring up to some level of high-powered performance or perfection, as if having it all together were the point. Instead, he showed us the humility that says, “I give what I have, just as I am, choosing to live under the mercy of God.” Keenly aware of his own shadow side, Dad is generous with grace to others. Even in the cultural context of fundamentalism, he taught us by example to “Judge not, lest ye be judged.” In spite of this, and also probably because of it, I remember many an occasion where Dad’s discernment on sensitive matters was sought ought even when he resisted that role.

Second, Dad has consistently rooted for the underdog, often simply because others contemptuously regarded them as such. Whether cheering for the hapless Chicago Blackhawks; or cutting red tape to welcome refugees from China to Czechoslovakia; or befriending our disabled friends at the Boissevain Hand-Crafter; or playing hymns on his comical brass horn to thankful seniors and street people, he saw the inherent dignity of those at the bottom of society’s heap… those who always seem to miss life’s playoffs. He showed us that “love your neighbour” is meant to be lived in unexpected places with unpopular people. I enjoy seeing how Dad makes such people feel safe.

Finally, Dad showed us that the best kind of influence—true leadership—does not come from ambition or dominance, position or title. It arises from serving, sometimes silently and sacrificially when there is nothing in it for the ego. I suppose people may under-estimate the long-term stability Dad has deposited in our clan, our church and our community, maybe because he never campaigned for such opportunities. Nevertheless, there’s a type of faithfulness that says, “As best as I can tell, I need to respond to this need. God help me.” Unfortunately, servants often get scape-goated by those who need to cast blame… I’m glad to say that Dad avoided the bitterness and cynicism that is so tempting in those times. Dad, a day is coming when you will hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” 

I’m glad that I can reflect in this way while Dad is still healthy and can hear that I noticed and, in part, learned. Someday, I’d be proud to hear that great compliment, “He’s his father’s son.” In your case, Dad, that would be high praise indeed. Happy birthday.

Comments

[C and H Denney]

Really enjoyed this tribute as I do your writing in general. I look forward to meeting your Dad one day. May your sons and daughters recognize and appreciate their godly heritage in like manner.

[Kimberley Olsen]

Happy Birthday to your Dad!! I want to personally thank the Jersak family for all that they did for our community and family. I had the privilege of growing up with them, and they were all a very positive, Christian role models, and still are to this day. I will never forget the gesture of giving their own family dog to our family, when my Dad was dying of cancer. To a six year old girl, this was truly unforgettable, and a gesture I will never forget!! Thank-you and God Bless you all!

[Amy B]

Wow! What an awesome man. Give him a hug from me and tell him I, too, have learned from him, just from this little article. So his influence has spread down to Alabama, USA!!
Blessings, Amy