An Open Letter to My Son (Jeremy)

Today and tomorrow I am sharing a personal letter to each of my boys.  Both boys have sensed a call to full-time ministry.  They are both serving Christ with their life already.  I have sensed the desire to publicly express my joy in them recently, so while I was away from my family this weekend performing a wedding in Florida, I decided to spend some time and write a letter to each of them.  I hope you will oblige me here. (It is my blog so I guess I can if I want to.) 

I’ll start with the oldest.  Jeremy is a 20 year old junior in college. 

Dear Jeremy,

Have I ever told you how glad I am as a dad to be a part of your life?  You are an intelligent 20 year old man and honestly I can’t imagine anyone your age being any more mature or responsible than you are.  (Could a person have any more scholarships than you have?)  You leave a great impression on everyone you meet. To know you is to instantly like you.  I consistently hear your praises and I glow inside each time. Thank you for honoring your parents by living such an honorable life. 

Jeremy, you have always had a sensitive heart.  It seemed the more strict I was with you, the more you loved me.  Your heart was and is tender.  You have always wanted the approval of others and consequently you seek to make others happy too.  I realize now that at times I crushed your spirit unknowingly through my desire to help you achieve more, but even if I was harsh, you always came back for more. You are so forgiving. 

I know at times you feel uncertain of your abilities, perhaps because you aren’t the planner or organizer your brother is, but your gifting is unique to you.  You have a passion for life and a deep concern for others.  You have relational skills that most of us pray to have.  You make others feel at ease around you and you aren’t afraid to meet a stranger; and if that stranger is in need; you’ll do whatever you can to help them.  You love worship and the deep desire of your heart is to please Christ.

Jeremy, I love you and I am so incredibly proud of you. Please know that I am always here for you.  Don’t sell yourself short in life.  Go for your dreams.  You have everything you need to succeed and God has great plans for you!