My oldest son is 20.
My heart swells a bit when I look at this young man.
I remember feeling unworthy for such a sweet blessing the night I had him. It was late. Paul was asleep in the hospital room. I just sat, completely astounded the Lord would bless me with such an awesome responsibility.
I’ve often said my children (especially my boys!), remind me of little acorns. I see them when they are so little, but I know with time, and patience, and love, and training, they will grow into huge oak trees.
I look at this young man in my home and I know his heart is for the Lord. I see him seeking His face at each turn in his life.
1 John 1:4 “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. “
I know this verse.
I know this joy.
I see what goes on in the quiet of our home…hidden from the world. I know what he is like when no one else watches. I’m so thankful the Lord has his heart.
I have prayed for him in the darkness, and in the light. I have prayed, silently seeking the Lord’s direction as Paul and I have made decisions- not really knowing the outcome, but trusting the Lord to lead.
He’s 20 now. He’s not my little acorn. His roots are stretching, and growing deep. He is a tree planted by the waters.
Psalm 1:1-3
“Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.”
What a pleasure to share his life, to know that he once grew inside of me. I’m thankful to the Lord for His faithfulness to my son and my family.
May the Lord bless you abundantly this year.
May His face shine on you. May you seek His leading. May you follow where He calls (and not just for now, but all the days of your life!).
I love you in a way I could never write in words. While I’ve watched the Lord work in your life, He has also used you to work in mine.
Happy Birthday, my dear Joshua.
With love,
Mama
