Watching our oldest son Stephen grow into a young man has been both a wonderful joy and a painful challenge and reality. How did this little newborn that I lifted heavenward at birth in a prayer of dedication to Jesus Christ grow so fast and come so far in such a short time? Where did this facial hair, deep voice, amazing creativity, and stubborn independent thinking come from? I know I can't blame it all on his mom, so what's a man to do? Who gave him permission to grow up so fast and become his own person who seems to need us less and less?
Honestly, I am laughing and crying as I consider these questions. I am so proud of this young man who bears my name and oozes confidence, personality and talent. I know Stephen's future is bright with a number of career options and opportunities looming in front of him as they tempt him to test his wings and fly.
As he goes off to Seattle in the Fall to attend THE GENERATION INTERN PROGRAM at The City Church in Kirkland, Washington, I find myself hoping we have done our job as parents in an honorable way and that Stephen will have the tools necessary to grow and mature as a follower of Jesus Christ in the real world. Stephen, we are so proud of you and look forward to watching you become the man that God has ordained you to be. Stretch out those wings and fly high and true. The Lord is with you!
Currently we are in Southern California hangin' with Peggy's family and experiencing the many
generational blessings of a mostly intact family! Peggy hails from a large Roman Catholic family of 11 children, being the perfect #7 in the birth order. Though her family has its fair share of dysfunction and problems, it is truly an amazing experience to be a part of their get-togethers. With babies, toddlers, kids, teens, young marrieds, cousins, uncles, aunts, brothers, sisters, moms, dads and grandparents, it is almost impossible to feel left out in any way. The energy, laughter, love and good arguments (um, debates) are a privilege to be a part of.
Nana and Pop as we call them, have bequeathed a rich heritage to all of us by simply sticking it out and staying married for 50 years. If there was ever a reason to stay married in this covenant breaking culture, it is clearly illustrated to all of us in this family every time we get together and experience the dynamic of true nitty gritty family life. Perfect? No! Redemptive? YES!!! As I always tell my wife, I sure am glad her parents didn't stop having kids after #6. Thank you Nana and Pop for being an example and model of endurance, perseverance and principle. Your reward in heaven will be great!
So... this probably isn't the palce for one of those smartaleky "WOW, One day short of a month between posts" comments, so I'll refrain. :)
ReplyDeleteHope your your time in the Peoples Democratic Republic of Kalifornia is treating you well. I have something for you to fill out when you get back. When is that by the way?
Anyway - be safe, drive safe, and we'll see you soon.
I'm facing the unknown again in a very real way watching Cassia spread her wings. I couldn't be more blessed with her as a teenager to parent, but I won't be parenting (in any recognizable way) for much longer. It feels like having to walk a ledge while shrouded in unpenatrable blackness. Slightly unsettling. What I'm really enjoying, though, is relating to her as a Christian. When she comes to tell me what she is reading and what God has done through it I don't need sight ~ Blindness seems almost to strengthen faith.
ReplyDeleteBeing a part of Stephen's life has been too special for words. We adore him. I hope as he takes to the road set before him that we will continue to be in his heart's sphere. There is no feeling on earth that compares with having one that you have been with since birth (practically) call you their friend.
Congratulations to Stephen and his parents! What a picture!
ReplyDelete50 years ~ wow. Does it feel like 50 to them? Seems like it would feel both like forever and the blink of an eye.
Ok Pastor ~ I know you have great wisdom and insight or at minimum a few personal reflections regarding world events as of late. Perhaps a new post?
I am glad you are all safely home and did your best to support our nation's economy with your gasoline purchases. Did you buy Chevron stock before you left? :)
Thanks for the reminder that "happily ever after" is not the same as "euphorically ever after." Real happiness is less intense but a lot more satisfying.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations. I've heard some great things about Generation and City Church. I am sure he is going to have a life changing experience there.
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say "Happy Anniversary"! Blessings!
ReplyDeleteD
Dude.... July 7th... Do you know how long ago that was... That's almost... Long Long Ago... In a Galaxy Far Far away... long ago. Surely something has happened in the world since then.. Oh they fought an entire war... Start to tenative finish...
ReplyDeleteDoug, you've been erased. The last post has aged off this blog and you're showing a blank page. Time to hurry up and think of something profound. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if this is the place to comment on your music choices, but I shall try.
ReplyDeleteAs great as all of your choices are, I was sad to see the one you left out. Maybe you've yet to hear it, and if that's the case I suggest you lend your ear.
The CD is called "In His Presence". It's a Vineyard worship cd. There is this new worship leader on the cd, his name is Tony Sanchez, and he is awesome.
Maybe you could put it on your list next time.
Thanks!
Yes Cathy, I read the comments people leave. I will add Tony's CD soon. Miss you much!
ReplyDeleteDoug
I was forwarded your link by a friend of mine, Michelle Minden. I appreciate the inspiring words you offer and just wanted to let you know I've been praying for Larry that the Lord will work a miracle of healing in his life.
ReplyDeleteTammy from Lexington Kentucky