Saturday, May 12, 2012

To Josh on the Eve of Your Wedding

Wow. It's hard to believe it's here. You're getting married tomorrow. The son we welcomed into our family so many years ago is beginning a family of his own. It's seems like only a little while ago that we were bringing you home on that cold January day. Sometimes time passes too quickly.

You know how proud we are of you, but we're going to to say it anyway. We are extremely proud of you, Josh. You have been a blessing from the Father since the day you were born. It is a privilege to be your parents. It has been an absolute joy to watch you grow up, and to watch God work in you, from the time you said you wanted to have a whole heart toward God until today. You have matured into a young man who loves Jesus and who wants to follow him. You are a compassionate person who graciously shows the Father's love to those around you.

There are a few things we want you to remember. First, remember your first allegiance is to Jesus. He is the One who loves you and lay down his life for you. Your second allegiance is to Alicia. She is your wife, and your call is to love her as Christ loved the Church, giving yourself for her. Next come the children that God blesses you with. Be the kind of father that allows them to easily see God as Father. If you keep those things straight, you will be the kind of man who reflects the image of your Savior.

We love you Josh, and we wish you and Alicia God's grace and favor. We pray the Father will grant you a long and happy life together, and allow you to see him work in wondrous ways.

2 comments:

kc bob said...

What a wonderful post Fred!

Fred Shope said...

Thanks, Bob!

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