In 1985, Country Music Singer Holly Dunn released her fourth single, a song entitled Daddy’s Hands. It was written as a gift to her father, who was a Church of Christ minister. She never intended the song to be anything more than a gift, but when she performed it for audiences, it was clear, the song struck a unique chord. The song earned her two Grammy nominations.
Some years ago, I had the extreme pleasure of having the song performed for me by my family at a milestone birthday. One of my daughters took the liberty to rewrite the lyrics somewhat, and add a verse. May the ultimate legacy of our lives not be one of wealth, or luxury, or even toil, but of loving the Lord Jesus and of living for Him.
I remember Daddy’s hands, folded silently in prayer And reaching out to hold me, when I had a nightmare. You can read quite a story in the callouses and lines Years of work and worry have left their mark behind.
I remember Daddy’s hands, how they hold my mama tight. And pat my back for something done right.
There are things that I admire, that I love about the man But I’ll always remember the love in Daddy’s hands.
Daddy’s hands are soft and kind when I am crying, Daddy’s hands are hard as steel when I’ve done wrong Daddy’s hands aren’t always gentle, but I’ve come to understand
There is always love in Daddy’s hands.
I remember Daddy’s hands, working till they bled Sacrificing unselfishly, just to keep us all fed Words cannot describe, Dad, how much you mean to me A hard-working, honest man, is what you’ll always be.
I remember Daddy’s hands, holding the good Lord’s book, Sharing about his Saviour, with every breath he took.
I may not remember, every lesson that you’ve taught,
But I’ll never forget the Saviour that I’ve got. Happy Father’s Day!