Last year I saw your rebirth. You went from being my son, to also being my brother in Christ. It has been so amazing watching you grow into your new identity in Christ. Like you dad, who is a sinner, it hasn't always been easy nor perfect-- nor will it. Thankfully, God's process of growing us into the image of His son Jesus (sanctification) is ongoing. As it has been with me, so it will go with you. I am just thankful to have a front row seat of God's work in you and through you.
Next year, you will join the ranks of teenagers. But for now, you hold on to one more year as a pre-teen. Nevertheless, this is a year of metamorphosis. We see metamorphosis all around us-- the transformation from one thing into another. If you look back at all the images attached to this blog, you can glimpse at the metamorphosis you have undergone.
God gives us opportunities to prepare as much as we can for these changes. This weekend, you and I will have a special getaway to explore God's design for manhood. I want to be the example of what a real man is supposed to be, but I fear that often you saw more my failures. There is so much I wish I could teach you, but I was never taught. But I hope you saw in me my own journey pursue the most manly man there is... Christ. The world shouts lies about what it means to be a man. The world and sin distorts God's image. I pray that this weekend gives you some tools to navigate the lies to avoid that I never had.
Tim, you live in a world that is constantly changing and trying to squeeze you into its mold. However, because you have experienced God's mercy, like Paul, I plead with you to "...not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind..." As a dad, I have tried to teach you God's Word because I know the best example of what it means to be a man is Jesus. Like your dad, you haven't always walked in step with the Spirit, but you are learning to hear and march to the Lord's cadence. Your march will look different than mine, but my prayer is that, like Christ, you will increase in wisdom and stature and in the favor with God and man. Always look to Christ. Learn to listen for His cadence, so that you will keep in step with Him. You were created in His image. I am proud of who are becoming. Stay the course.
Happy 12th Birthday!
