My Son

When you came from your mother's womb there was a rejoicing in my heart, a joy that to this day has never ceased.

As they put you in my arms I lifted you up and proclaimed you to God my Father and your name was released into my spirit.

You were to be known as Joshua Michael, which means,  The LORD IS OUR SALVATION - OH, WHO IS LIKE GOD.

As you grew I knew you were special, unique, a gift to be cherished and nurtured. You were always physically, mentally and spiritually strong. You had to be. You had to grow up quick and accept many more responsibilities than any other boy your age. You handled it, you never complained. You were just like that, you accepted what must be done and did it. You had the patience of Jobe and your mother alike.

When you chose to be an athlete I wasn't surprised. Not in the least. Baseball though wasn't my first choice. And catcher. I knew you would succeed. We went about training, you driving me as much as I pushed you. Joshua, you had an inner determination to be the best and I and others
admired and respected it.

Outsiders were confused by our connection, our closeness. We could sense each other's thoughts, that's probably why we butted heads sometimes but it never hindered our love and respect for each other.

When you were thirteen a very profound moment occurred in your life. You gave your life to Jesus. Whenever I thought of that time I cried tears of joy. There was an immediate recognizable change in your life, a purpose, a confidence was expressed in your actions.

Then you turned fifteen and were baptized with the Holy Spirit. Overnight you had received your destiny, things had become clear. Your athletic ability was more than for self-gratification. It would mean more. However far you would get it would ultimately give you opportunities to touch and positively influence lives.

Winning a State championship and all the accolades it brought to you didn't seem to faze you. I believe you knew it was a stepping-stone.

You were drafted and we all rejoiced with you as if you had arrived, but you had an air of confidence in the greater plan. Yes, your playing days were cut short but you took in stride and turned to coaching young players. You had arrived at your purpose. You were touching and influencing young lives with your knowledge and your life. I could finally see the fruition of your
promise, your destiny.

Yet there was something you longed for to make your life complete. You felt an emptiness inside. You wanted what your mother and I have. You used us as a model for your relationship hopes.

For the first time in your life your patience failed you. Your depression deepened, your peaceful nature left you as this latest love failed, the pressures of life increased as you spiraled out of control towards your ultimate decision.

To be with Jesus was now your hope, your destiny. To be relieved of the anguish and pain and to be in the presence of GOD the Father was the medicine, the PEACE you needed.

You have that now and the lives you touched will carry on your legacy of excellence in faith, in person and in sport.

You were my first-born, my helper, my confidant, and the one that brought me so much happiness. We celebrate your life in this time of sorrow.

This, IN THE NAME OF JESUS, I VOW to you Josh, I will not let your death be in vain. Your life was too important to allow it to float away with the wind. YOUR FIRE and DETERMINATION and LOVE will not pass, nor be forgotten.

Please let this enter the hearts of those that read this:

JESUS IS LORD. AND... Joshua is with HIM, Praise GOD!!!

Written by Joshua's loving father Michael Coffey