As we reflect on the passing of Dr Dobson, we cherish the memory of a remarkable individual who walked closely with the Lord. I’m grateful for his empathy towards the weak, downtrodden, and often overlooked individuals as he sought to uphold the value of Family in this world.

Although I didn’t have much direct interaction with Dr Dobson (I only met him once), I have spent more than 20 years at Focus Africa enjoying the legacy of his leadership and the culture and values he imprinted on the brand of Focus on the Family.

Jim Daly, the President of Focus USA said this: “I recall one of the first times I witnessed Dr. Dobson’s heart for people. I had taken part in a dinner with several Focus on the Family supporters, and one couple told me the heart-wrenching story of the death of their 4-year-old son to lymphoma. The father shared how, for months, he had held his dying child at night, praying for God’s intervention. But their little boy lost his battle with cancer and slipped away.

When I relayed this story to Dr. Dobson, his eyes filled with tears and he said, “That’s one of the most devastating experiences a human being can suffer. The loss of a child would lead any parent to ask, ‘Why, God?’” He was heartbroken for that family. A few years later, he wrote When God Doesn’t Make Sense. Perhaps that book grew from Dr. Dobson’s emotional connection to families who suffer inexplicable tragedies. He heard many stories of family trauma through the years, and he grieved for each one. He never lost his heart for those who weep.”

Now, as we mourn, our hearts ache. Dr Dobson was not only a devoted husband, father, and grandfather but also a cherished friend to countless listeners and readers worldwide. While we deeply feel his absence, we take comfort in knowing that he is now rejoicing in the presence of the God he faithfully served.