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Yesterday our oldest turned 9! I’ve started the practice of writing my family a letter at key moments in our lives. It’s an opportunity to leave a signature on their story and bless them concerning their futures. It gives me an opportunity to think and pray about their passions and desires and  dream about how God may be shaping their lives. I also think about the weeds in their lives that I can pray away and with God’s help lead them out of. The idea came from a great book called Letters From Dad. Here is a portion of Hudson’s birthday letter for this year. I’ve shared a few of my letters to Jack and a portion of one of my Valentine’s Day letters to Heather in the past. Here’s a bit of Jack’s letter. He’s awesome!

Happy Birthday Jack Attack!!! At nine years old, I’m amazed at your maturity and desire to do the right thing. And I’m very proud because this year I’m not just your Dad, but your Christian brother, as you have now given your life to Jesus. It was awesome to be part of your baptism. I’m looking forward to growing In Christ On Mission For Others with you. I can’t help but believe that God has his hand on you and is going to use you in incredible ways. You have an incredible heart for people that shows in your ability to make friends with absolutely anyone, your inability to give up on and act negative toward a friend even when they hurt you, your desire to help those who are struggling instead of hang out with the more “popular” kids, your perceptiveness and discernment about peoples feelings and emotions. I pray that you never lose these qualities. I’m also praying that you develop the same enthusiasm you have toward friends and hanging out toward everything you pursue, including studies and chores. You’re growing into a real leader and with leadership comes great responsibility. This summer you ask a great question after your third wasp sting: “Why am I always the one that gets stung?” This summer it was because you were the one in the lead. The first one to go. I pray that you don’t lose heart and shrink away from leadership and responsibility as you get stung, but that God continues to develop these incredible gifts in you. I’m proud of you, I’m confident you’re going to be a great man, I’m blessed to be your Dad. Happy Birthday Jackson!!!

Love, Dad