A soul without a well-established aim (purpose) loses itself. That's who I was when I first met Richard G. Madsen over 38 years ago. Richard was my father-in-law, who passed away on July 6, 2024. It's challenging to capture the essence of Richard in a single word – loving, caring, loyal, and so much more come to mind. Yet, if I had to choose just one word, it would undeniably be “RESPONSIBLE!” He embodied responsibility in a way that transformed my life, guiding me from a sense of aimlessness to a place of purpose, allowing me to relish life alongside his remarkable daughter, Sherrie.
Witnessing Richard's life provides a living example of responsibility and its practical application in everyday life. His exemplary conduct served as a guide for meeting not only specific obligations but also making conscientious choices in various aspects of life. Proverbs 13:4 “A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.” beautifully contrasts the outcomes of diligence and laziness, underscoring the rewards of responsible and hardworking behavior, qualities that epitomized Richard. His life was a testament to responsible and hardworking behavior, leading to a fulfilling and satisfying life.
If Rich had one pet peeve, it was people's failure to take responsibility seriously. He recognized the far-reaching consequences of neglecting responsibility, understanding how it leads to strained relationships, eroded trust, hindered personal growth, and perpetuates harmful behavior, ultimately undermining the pursuit of a good and righteous life. Despite his frustration with the state of responsibility in today's society, he held firm to the wisdom of Galatians 6:5, “For each one should carry their load.” he understood the weight of each person's responsibilities, especially when facing an eternal encounter with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
If you were to seek Richard's advice on cultivating responsibility in daily life, he would advocate for simple yet profound actions. From cleaning up after oneself to helping others without prompting, holding oneself accountable, speaking the truth unwaveringly, and living a purpose-driven life that extends beyond personal desires, Richard embodied these principles. Through Richard's guidance and faith, I found my purpose as he led his family to embrace the example of the most responsible figure in history, Jesus, ultimately leading to my salvation and a life filled with purpose and responsibility in alignment with the teachings of Jesus.
Today, as Richard and many others throughout history have done, we can and should embrace responsibility. Let's challenge the idea that responsibility is selective and commit to accountability in all aspects of our lives. By embracing responsibility, we can leave behind a legacy worth remembering, just as Richard G. Madsen (July 16, 1939 - July 6, 2024) has done. This legacy is left with us to pay it forward so that the next generation can learn from it. Let's all strive to have a healthy reverence, awe, and respect for God through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to embody authentic responsibility.
Pastor Drake