“Don’t just pretend that you love others. Really love them.
Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love each other with genuine
affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy in your work,
but serve the Lord enthusiastically. Be glad for all God is planning for you.
Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful.” Romans 12:9-12 (New Living
Translation)
Twelve years ago
today, right about the time I am writing this (7:30 am), my life was changed forever and for the
better with your birth. Now, today, for
the first time in your young 12 years, I celebrate here on the island without
you, so as the apostle Paul did with his churches back in Bible times, I write
this letter to you, to encourage and uplift you on this most momentous occasion
in your life. The verse above is what Paul
wrote to his friends in Rome to share the love of God, who called them to be
his people, and it is the one I wish to share with you, so you will know and
feel our love in the same way.
I thought the
words in Paul’s letter were very apt for you today as you are already such an
example of the traits discussed in the verse. You have taught me so much about love and how
to love genuinely, just by being you.
You love your friends unconditionally, stand up for what is right when
you are with them, and work hard to do your best in school and in life. Continue to do so because God is planning so
many wonderful things for you. You have
already been so patient with the troubles in your life, amazingly so. I have learned from you on that count as
well. You rarely complain about problems, although you have them just as we all
do, and you are the first to remind me that we need to pray at bedtime if I
forget. So, even though I am not with
you physically and able to pray sitting next to you on the bed, don’t forget
that I am still with you in heart, mind, and spirit, and I am praying for and
with you from afar.
Twelve years ago
today, you changed my life, and I am so grateful that God entrusted you to my
care. You are a joy, blessing, an old soul, and my sweet “Have It” baby
boy. I look forward to seeing the young
man you are becoming and will become as you continue to grow. It has all happened way too fast, but I
wouldn’t change a thing. Each experience has enhanced our time together and
shown me how very insightful and sensitive God has created you to be. Believe in yourself, treasure all the special
gifts God has given you, and use them for His good purposes and to change the
lives of others for the better, just as you’ve changed my life. I love you, sweet pea!! Happy Birthday!
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