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EN(dur)ANCE by Robin Gudal

Today I’m starting with a Facebook post from our chosen son, Scott:

“My son turned 17 today. Let me give a little bit of history as to how this is a double cool day. Thirty-eight years ago, a feral 14-year-old boy was driven up a long gravel driveway in Bricelyn, Minn. This boy was told that this was his last chance to succeed before he would be put into a facility for wayward youth. He was introduced to a 23-year-old woman and a 2-year-old boy. That woman is and has been my mom for 38 years. After 13 foster homes and a stint in a kiddie prison, this woman and her husband showed me compassion, empathy and care. They saved that boy’s life, and I could never repay that gift. It has been the best family a feral kid could ask for, and I am blessed to have Robin and Greg as my mom and dad. Included in that is a brother I love and two sisters I admire. Words can’t express the love I have for these people as well as their family for accepting me as one of their own.”

When I reminisce on our family decision to do foster care and read this, I know all the hard times were worth it. We are so proud of all our kids and paused this week to embrace a moment of that. It reminds me of a new favorite song by Brandon Lake and Jelly Roll, “Hard Fought Hallelujah.”

Jelly Roll is a radical-looking artist — he has tattoos, even on his face — whose music resonates with fans due to its raw honesty and relatability.

Being in ministry I often find myself drawn to the fringe individuals. Jelly Roll has an outward canvas that is rough, but if we pause and listen to his story, it is a deep, tear-jerking and amazing story of God’s grace and love.

“There’s days when a praise comes out easy, days when it takes all the strength I’ve got. So I’ll bring my hard fought, heartfelt, been through hell hallelujah, and I’ll bring my storm tossed, torn sail, story to tell hallelujah. ’Cause God, you’ve been patient, God, you’ve been gracious, faithful, whatever I’m feelin’or facin’, so I’ll bring my hard fought, heartfelt hallelujah.

“Lord, I need you, more than I needed anything in my life. It is well hallelujah, hallelujah, oh, hallelujah!” — “Hard Fought Hallelujah”

To the backbones of the Beckman and Gudal family, thank you, Dad (Tracy), blessed be the memory of my father-in-love, Andy.

And Greggy, you are my hero, my friend and my cheerleader. Thank you for loving our family with humility, grace, love and always drawing us closer to the heavenly Father.

Happy and blessed Father’s Day to all the fathers — you are so important!

Robin (Beckman) Gudal is intentional in life, a wife, momma, nana, friend and a flawed and imperfect follower of Jesus.