As a new, young pastor in Florida in the early 1980s, I happened across Dr. Dobson's Focus on the Family broadcast on our Christian radio station in Central Florida. I was so moved by the broadcast that I made sure that I would reach my home every afternoon in time to hear and record on audio cassette every broadcast during the few years that I was there in Florida. I was able to replay and be blessed by those important broadcasts through the years, many of which helped me in my ministry. One of the earliest broadcasts that I remember that had a profound effect on me, and actually brought me to tears, was Macaroni at Midnight, which I ended up replaying several times because of its impact. My life and ministry have also been enriched by the numerous books by Dr. Dobson which I have read through the years. I know that his legacy will live on through the spoken and printed word, and I want to thank his family and all involved for your part in this ministry, and for keeping it alive even after its founder, Dr. Dobson, has left us. May God bless you all as you continue this important ministry.
PreviousEven though I never had the chance to meet Dr. Dobson, I feel like he was a great friend and mentor. At a time in my early professional life when my commute was long (I was driving about 40 miles to work, from Long Beach to Glendale, and then back home in the evening), I stumbled across the Focus on the Family program during one of my long drives. Something resonated deep in my soul. I had grown up in a Christian family, attending church regularly, until my parents divorced; I was only 8 years old at that time. The wounds of a broken family were deep, and though I had some connection to church, I soon turned away and found more comfort in drugs and alcohol as a teenager. By the time I completed college and was married, my wife and I knew we were missing something terribly important - a relationship with the Lord. I was soon listening to Dr. Dobson almost every drive, and it was one of the most important influences for me to return to my faith. Not too far down the road, I became a father myself, and my wife and I leaned heavily on Dr. Dobson's programs and resources. My most vivid recollection of a statement by Dr. Dobson was his message to his kids: "be there." That is now my message to my kids. I am praying for the Dobson family. I cannot imagine their grief, but their joy is also full in knowing he is now at peace and with the Lord. Many thanks to Dr. Dobson for the profound wisdom and commitment he provided to me and to so many.
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