Growing Up with an Abusive Father
Bart Millard, lead singer of MercyMe, grew up in Greenville, Texas, facing intense hardship. Born on December 1, 1972, Bart endured severe physical and emotional abuse from his father, Arthur Wesley Millard Jr., a former high school football star. Arthur's life took a dark turn after a truck accident, leading to alcoholism and an unpredictable temper, exacerbated by potential brain damage from years of football. When Bart was around 12, his mother left, leaving Bart and his brother in their father's care.
Bart remembers, "I thought he was going to kill me," after one particularly severe beating. Despite the abuse, Bart yearned for his father's approval, clinging to the hope of receiving love and affection.
Father's Transformation Through Jesus
Bart's situation began to shift when Arthur was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and experienced a profound transformation, surrendering his life to Jesus. "I got a front row seat to see this guy go from being a monster to falling desperately in love with Jesus," Bart shared.
Arthur's newfound faith led to a significant change in their relationship. By the time Arthur passed away in 1991, Bart described his father as his best friend and the most godly man he had ever known. "My dad went from a monster to the guy I wanted to be like when I grew up," Bart remarked. This reconciliation taught Bart about forgiveness and grace, witnessing firsthand the power of God's transformation.
I Can Only Imagine Song Born
After Arthur's death, Bart found solace in the phrase "I can only imagine," inspired by his grandmother's words about Arthur's experience in heaven. This phrase became the foundation for the song "I Can Only Imagine," which Bart wrote in 1999. The song reflects on the awe of encountering Jesus, pondering whether one would dance or fall silent in His presence.
The song's success was remarkable, launching at the moment Bart needed it most, as the financial support from his father was about to run out. It became a beacon of hope to millions, affirming that "God is able to do 'immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.'" Through the trials and redemption in Bart's life, Jesus is shown as the ultimate healer and redeemer, transforming what seemed lost into something profoundly beautiful.