I remember that day in 2008.
To finally see your face we couldn’t wait.
Fresh out of Heaven we held you close
Of all the Earth we cared for you the most.
Skin on skin I wanted badly for you to know
How much I loved you and I would never let go.
So pure and perfect that day you were
To expose you to the world I wasn’t so sure.
Humbled by the tall task of raising you right
We knew we couldn’t do it on our own might.
So we prayed for wisdom, patience, and grace
That God would help us no matter the time or place.
Above all we wanted you to love the Lord
To be guided each day by the truth in His Word.
To pray all day—not just before a meal
To make your faith your own – one that is real.
And when, not if, temptation comes your way
Ask God to help you – He’ll do as you say.
What if you stumble or fall or sin?
Trust Jesus—and don’t let Satan win.
You see, the Devil’s game is guilt and shame.
But God is so much bigger than any mistake you make
On the Cross He suffered and died for your sake.
You see the verdict is out and you are accepted
You’ve been set free since He was rejected.
So have confidence in Jesus and not your ability
Fall to your knees daily and be clothed in humility.
When you surrender your heart and lay it all down
Peace will follow and His strength will abound.
Now be careful what you think, touch, see, and taste
Your body’s a temple—don’t make choices in haste.
What you sow today you will reap later
Choose God to please—His plan is greater.
What feels good in the moment isn’t always the best
If you consider the results you’ll pass the test.
To see your future look at the friends you keep
For good or for bad it’s their character you’ll reap.
Be strong not passive—and speak up for what’s right
Choose words wisely—a light you’ll be bright.
Comfort and encourage others in times of need
Point to God—your advice they will heed.
Like Jesus, be a servant leader and go the extra mile
Surprise enemies with love—make your Father smile.
Like Jesus, love and accept despite the class, color, or race
No judging. No condemning. Err on the side of grace.
Like Jesus, whatever you do or say, it’s about God’s glory.
Life isn’t about you—He’s the main character in your story.
Like Jesus, you’ve been give a mission to seek and save the lost
He’s called you to preach the Gospel—no matter the cost.
Like Jesus, you’ll be mocked, ridiculed, and left in the cold
But be faithful. Stay patient. It’s worth it. Be bold.
My son, someday we’ll release you to the world
But for now we’ll keep pointing you to the Lord.
For now we’ll keep hugging, playing, and praying
Special memories we’ll make—no longer delaying.
In each moment and each day. In each laugh and each meal.
May you know our love and God’s is for real.
So no matter how deep your voice and how big you grow
That feeling of holding you in my arms will never go.