Fifty years ago, a little man child was born. The arrival of this child was an unexpected surprise to his parents, yet the Lord had a special plan for this third son, a plan of hope and a future, an expected end.
Although many would say that his childhood was far from ideal, the Lord used those very events to shape him into what he is today. This little lad was also blessed with periods of unusual opportunity and an early interest in what would eventually be the way of providing for his family.
Growing up in one of the most beautiful cities in the nation, a great appreciation for the natural beauty of God's creation was nurtured within him. A son of industrious parents, he grew to be a young man of loyalty, integrity and responsibility.
At the age of twenty-three, the Lord saved him to be one of His chosen people. No longer would he do his own pleasure, but by God's grace, he would do his Father's. For well over a couple decades, his life has been counter-cultural as he followed the Scriptures.
As a young man, he was given one of the greatest gifts of his life, his beloved bride. During their twenty-three years of joyful marriage, they have become a couple of united purpose and vision. This vision extends beyond their lives or their children's, but to future generations yet unborn, if He wills.
During the past twenty-two years, this man of God has been blessed with eight arrows on this earth, five daughters and three sons. He has invested the prime of his life, with his wife at his side, to train these children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, not only by word and deed, but by the very principles that guide his life.
Earlier this week his wife, children and mother gathered around him for a special day of celebration, the day marking his fiftieth year. Feasting, laughing and working before the Lord, they celebrated God's faithfulness in the life of this patriarch, saved by grace.
This is the man I gratefully call my father.
