Today is my son’s birthday. Markus has been a delight to our family since birth and today I am going to drive over and spend some time with him. Birthdays are a cause of celebration for me. I can still remember the day he was born and the hospital where it all took place. I need this birthday to remind me of my life and what really matters in it. I need to be a good parent even now when they are gone from the nest. I need to love their mother more and show my sons and their families love and compassion. For me being a Christian is not just something I do as church. It is a way of life that should be seen in my daily relationship. When I get done writing these words, I am going to take some time and just sit and thank God for my family. Tonight when I sit around the table eating with my son and his wife I am going to silently pray that I can be their in a very real way for them both. I love pastoring because I do get to see many others like myself who are letting God help them be the family where love abounds.